In early October, the skies above Albuquerque are transformed from their normal brilliant blue into a kaleidoscope of color as thousands of people cheer the lift off of more than 700 hot air balloons in the early morning quiet.

Hot air and gas balloons representing 38 states and 22 countries compete in a variety of events over ten days. "You cannot help but be captivated, charmed, and awed as the balloons drift quietly against the backdrop of the Sandia Mountains," says Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta(R) spokesperson Kathie Leyendecker. Leyendecker, who has attended all 32 Balloon Fiestas dating back to the very first one held in 1970 where 13 balloons launched from the parking lot of a shopping center.

Today, the event is held on 350 grass-covered acres at Balloon Fiesta Park where visitors can experience the excitement of interacting with the pilots and their crews as they inflate and launch their balloons from the field.

From the special events to competitive events, spectators will be delighted with the weekend morning mass ascensions, evening balloon glows, and special shapes rodeos where uniquely shaped balloons participate.

A highlight of the Balloon Fiesta is the America's Challenge Gas Balloon Race where 18 gas balloons compete in a distance race.

For more information, visit www.balloonfiesta.com or call toll free at 888.442.7277.