Yellow flag raised for first day of Balloon Fiesta

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – Saturday, October 4, marks the launch of the 53rd Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. As of 6:40 a.m., the yellow flag is up. According to Balloon Fiesta’s Facebook page, it will be a static display on Saturday morning.

For the nine-day event, pilots gather at the Pilot Briefing Tower at 6 a.m. to discuss the weather and flying conditions. If any of the following scenarios occur, the day’s events may be postponed or canceled:

  • Winds faster than 10 knots (approximately 11.5 miles per hour)
  • Less than 3 miles of visibility
  • Clouds below 1,500 feet
  • Rain

This morning’s National Anthem will be performed by Deanna Richard. Following the National Anthem, a flyover will commence at 7:00 a.m. Static Display on the field this morning.

— Balloon Fiesta (@balloonfiesta) October 4, 2025

Good morning and welcome! Up bright and early for Day 1! Stay tuned for details on today’s events.

— Balloon Fiesta (@balloonfiesta) October 4, 2025 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta 2025: What you need to know…

Story continues

TRENDING NOW

LATEST LOCAL NEWS