Each fall, over 1000 pilots and crews, tens of thousands spectators from all over the world
come to the Albuquerque balloon festival, known as the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta,
the world's largest hot air ballooning event. For nine days during the first full week of October,
hundreds of colorful balloons float above the city each morning as dawn breaks over the Sandia Mountains.

It's no wonder this visual feast is said to be the world's most photographed event.