Hot Air Balloon Festivals

Over our 40 years of operation, Rainbow Ryders has had the honor of being a part of some of the world’s largest and celebrated hot air balloon festivals. Our adventures have taken us to the Albuquerque International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta®, a breathtaking event that fills the skies of New Mexico. We have also soared over the stunning landscapes of Colorado Springs during the Labor Day Lift Off, participated in Gallup’s Red Rock Balloon Rally, and delighted crowds with tethered flights at Phoenix’s Spooktacular Festival. Each of these events offers unique experiences and views, and we are more than proud to be the official hot air balloon ride operator.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Take part in the world’s largest hot air balloon festival as you fly with 600 balloons gracing the skies of the ballooning capital of the world, Albuquerque, New Mexico. Rainbow Ryder’s has had the privilege to be the official ride operator for The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® for over 10 years, flying over 300 passengers per day during the festival. Indulge in a shared basket flight accommodating 10-14 passengers or keep the moment intimate with a private balloon flight! There is no shortage of things to do at this festival including: endless food vendors, drone shows, evening glows, skydiving shows and much more! Balloon Fiesta occurs annually in Albuquerque during the first week of October, located at Balloon Fiesta Park.

Labor Day Lift-Off

Join Rainbow Ryders in the skies over Colorado Springs for the state’s largest balloon festival, the Labor Day Lift Off! Launching from Memorial Park, Rainbow Ryders offers exhilarating hot air balloon rides, giving you the chance to soar alongside 70 other balloons including special shapes! Labor Day Lift Off takes place every Memorial Day Weekend in Colorado Springs. Enjoy free admission, food trucks, live music, and much more!

Red Rock Balloon Rally

Seize the opportunity to experience a unique hot air balloon flight drifting through the stunning red rocks of Gallup, New Mexico. Rainbow Ryders is thrilled to offer rides during the Red Rock Balloon Rally, where you’ll ascend with 40 other balloons! Prepare your cameras and bundle up for breathtaking views during this early morning chilly flight. Enjoy the magical evening balloon glows and bonfires that conclude the day’s sessions. The Red Rock Balloon Rally is held annually on the first weekend of December.

Spooktacular Balloon Festival

Get your costumes and cameras ready and take part in an excitingly spooky event! Spooktacular Balloon Festival takes place during Halloween week in Phoenix, Arizona! This kid-friendly event holds a gathering of 10-15 balloons with Rainbow Ryders operating tethered hot air balloon flights for all ages. You will be able to soar about 50 feet above the ground taking in the full view of the festival as well as enjoy limitless food vendors and activities for children! Finish the night with the incredible view of a balloon glow.

Arizona Balloon Classic

Take advantage of the beautiful winter weather in Arizona with a flight from the Arizona Balloon Classic. Launching at Goodyear Ballpark, home of the Cincinatti Reds and the Cleveland Guardians, enjoy a roughly one hour flight with over 20 other balloons. Both morning and afternoon flights are available. Enjoy views of the Estrella Mountains and the iconic downtown Phoenix skyline. Your flight price includes a celebratory toast and admission to the evening’s Desert Glow event as well!

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