A Unique Balloon Fiesta Comes to an End
The 53rd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has concluded, with hotel owners and managers reporting notable trends.
Notable changes marked the 53rd edition of the event, including the first-ever Fiesta event outside of Balloon Fiesta Park, the Globito Glow event, held in Los Ranchos along Fourth Street.
- The gas balloon races were skipped due to a scheduling conflict in France.
- Eleven special shapes made their debut this year.
The future of the fan favorite "Darth Vader" balloon remains uncertain, with a fundraising effort underway to rebuild its fabric.
Weather issues also affected the event, with several sessions changed or canceled due to wind or rain.
Author's summary: Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta ends with trends.