"Colorful Balloon Fiesta Takes Flight in Albuquerque's New Mexico Sky"

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is set to begin, featuring a drone light show, mass ascension of hot air balloons, and a variety of colorful and special-shaped balloons. The event, which started in 1972 with 13 balloons, has grown into a major economic driver for Albuquerque. With the Rio Grande river and nearby mountains as backdrops, the fiesta attracts nearly 830,000 visitors from around the world. Nighttime events include fireworks and balloon glows, and 550 balloon pilots are registered to fly this year, taking advantage of the unique wind patterns known as the Albuquerque box. Visitors can also pay for balloon rides to enjoy the scenic views.