Green flag launches Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 

Albuquerque, N.M. – Two fabulous days of green flag for launching Sunday and Monday brought excitement to the large crowds of spectators that filled the field.  Both mornings had a large drone light show as the pilots had a briefing and the green flag was raised. A morning glow preceded the Mass ascension after the green flag was raised.  Hundreds of balloons inflated and raised toward the beautiful sky Sunday and Monday.

Monday held a fly in competition.  The pilots launched outside the main launch area.  As they came into the main launch area they attempted to drop a marker as close as possible to a target. The balloon with the most points took the prize.

The field was filled by thousands of guests that began arriving on the field from 4 a.m. and on.  Monday was New Mexico Day.

Hunter Wells, Nancy Ann Peterson, photographer, 7:00 pm, October 6, 2025