The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is one of the most iconic events in New Mexico, drawing thousands of visitors from around the world to see the amazing sight of hot air balloons filling the sky. If you're planning a session during the fiesta, it's important to know what you're getting into. The entry cost is typically around $15 per person (+$20 parking) , and if you're driving yourself, expect to encounter long wait times—up to 2-3 hours of traffic just to get in. It's not for the faint of heart, but trust me, the photos are totally worth the wait.
The best way to get in and avoid the stress is by using the Park and Ride system, which is super convenient and way less of a pain. You'll park at one of the designated spots around the city and hop on a bus that will take you directly to the fiesta grounds. The bus ride is quick, and once you're there, you'll get in much faster and be able to focus on snapping great photos without worrying about parking. Even though you’ll still encounter crowds, the experience is way more chill, and you won’t have to stress about finding a spot.
Planning your arrival early is crucial, even when using the park & ride, as the best photography opportunities are often at sunrise (when most of the hot air balloons begin there ascension), and the pedestrian lines to enter the park can become lengthy. Dressing in layers is advisable, as temperatures can be quite chilly in the hour before sunrise.
Now, let’s talk about the crowds. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta attracts tens of thousands of people, so you can expect plenty of others in the background of your photos. While it’s impossible to avoid the masses, they actually add to the energy of the event. People are excited, and it’s part of the unique vibe that makes the fiesta so fun. With the right timing and positioning, you can still capture some amazing photos of the balloons rising into the sky, and the crowds won’t take away from the beauty of the moment. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is an unforgettable experience that’s absolutely worth the effort!
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"We could not have been happier with our photos and our experience with Weckmann Photography. They worked their butts off, and the shots were amazing. They captured so many candid moments throughout the reception and ceremony, and we love having these memories to look back on. You won’t regret hiring them!"
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