53rd Annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta Comes to an End
The 53rd annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has concluded, with hotel owners and managers reporting notable trends and changes.
- The first-ever Fiesta event outside of Balloon Fiesta Park, Globito Glow, was held in Los Ranchos along Fourth Street.
- Gas balloon races were skipped due to a scheduling conflict in France.
- Eleven special shapes made their debut, while the future of the "Darth Vader" balloon remains uncertain.
A fundraising effort is underway to rebuild Darth Vader's fabric, as the 2025 Fiesta could be the last for the fan favorite.
Weather issues also impacted the event, with several sessions changed or canceled due to wind or rain.
Author's summary: The 53rd Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta ended with new trends.