Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta features special shape balloons

The 54th Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is underway at Balloon Fiesta Park, featuring the Special Shapes Rodeo. This event showcases 117 special shape balloons, including 13 new additions from countries such as the United States, Brazil, the United Kingdom, and North Macedonia.

Notable balloons include the massive Airabelle the cow, which measures 120 feet long, and various themed shapes like the red chile ristra. The festival schedule includes morning rodeos, evening glows, and specific themed days such as Kids Day.

For visitors traveling to the event, New Mexico law allows adults aged 21 and older with valid identification to purchase cannabis, though public consumption is prohibited at the festival grounds.