The Bimbo Bear, Mariachi And Lovebirds To Soon Fill Albuquerque Skies

The 45th Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta presented will host international Special Shape balloon teams as a part of the world’s premier balloon event, October 1-9. This year’s event will include 108 special shape balloons representing nine countries, 17 of those shapes will make their first ever flight as a part of Balloon Fiesta.

Special shape balloons have held a special honor at Balloon Fiesta since the premiere of the Special Shape Rodeo in 1989, the first event of its kind devoted exclusively to special shapes hot air balloons. For many, it’s the most popular event at Balloon Fiesta Park.

On Thursday and Friday of Balloon Fiesta week during the Special Shapes Rodeo, special shape balloons will take to the launch field and ascend into the sky, creating a delightful display of wondrous shapes and fun characters. Special shapes also participate in two evening events; known at the Special Shape Glowdeo. The balloons remain tethered to the ground, lighting their burners to create a spectacular glowing effect.

Guests viewing the Special Shape Rodeo will be in for a few new twists during the 2016 event.  For example, special shape balloons will be grouped by subject matter. This new twists will create an opportunity to interact with the balloons and share pictures on social media with friends and family.

Special shape balloons are not only entertaining, they represent significant engineering feats. Careful designing is required to assure the entire shape fills appropriately, and that the balloon still remains stable and controllable.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.balloonfiesta.com/