In early October each year, Albuquerque (New Mexico) conducts its International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. In past years, it's drawn as many 1,000 hot air balloons. This year, more than 500 balloons participated. The crowds have remained consistently large at over 80,000. This is the 40th year for the fiesta.

The Fiesta is held on an open, turfed field the size of 50 football fields. With so many balloons going up in a short period of time, it could be confusing, but the organization is thorough and tight. Balloonists are well prepared, professional pilots. Ground controllers, dressed in zebra striped clothing manage the flights. Everyone has a good time and accidents are rare.

The sight of so many balloons of all shapes, colors and sizes is awesome. Everyone is permitted on the field with the balloons, so it's high excitement for everyone. The event is publicized as the most photographed event in the world. That could be true with 80,000 spectators, many of whom have cameras, there are certainly a lot of photos taken.

There are morning dawn patrols, sunrise mass ascensions, sunset glodeos and after dark fireworks. There are events all over town to help fill the days and nights for visitors. This is a world class event and a guaranteed winner for everyone.