Albuquerque, New Mexico: “Back to the Future” balloon launched on day 2 when the green flag was flown. Casey Heupel was the pilot from West Glacier, Montana that flew the balloon that traveled about 4.16 miles and reached to about 9,918 feet (Albuquerque field about 5,000 feet). The flight landing was streamed through the local NBC network in Albuquerque with the commentator saying that Heupel had a “text book” landing.
The theme for 2026 was “The Scenic Route” celebrating Route 66. More than 550 hot air balloons from all over the world participated that also included nearly 120 special shapes. At evening time the drone show was displayed followed by a large firework show.
Hunter Wells, Nancy Ann Peterson October 4, 2026
