Copyright © 2020 Albuquerque Journal
Albuquerque residents will still get a quintessential view of at least some balloons in the October sky beginning Saturday.
But, like most things during COVID-19, it will be from a distance.
While the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta was canceled for this year, pilots are still aiming to launch throughout the city, starting today.
In what’s being called “Balloon Fall Fest,” balloons will take off from five City of Albuquerque parks.
The goal is to fly right after sunrise – if the weather cooperates.
The launch sites are not, however, open to the public.
Balloonists were invited to launch on the mornings of October 3, 4, 7, 10 and 11 at these parks:
• Ventana Ranch Park
• Mariposa Basin Park
• Vista del Norte Park
• North Domingo Baca Park
Balloon Fiesta Park will also be open to balloonists from today to Oct. 11.
Also starting today, the ballooning event “Lifting Spirits,” an aerial ode to frontline workers, will kick off.
According to a news release, pilots will launch hot air balloons from locations throughout Albuquerque, including the Coronado Center and nearby areas, on Saturday and Sunday.
“Lifting Spirits” is a nationwide and global occasion, according to their website,
“While first initiated in Albuquerque, pilots throughout New Mexico, the United States and around the world have been encouraged to participate,” a news release stated.
