Each fall, pilots, crews and spectators from all over the world come to 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. More than 600 balloons were registered this year.
On one day of the Fiesta, there is a “Special Shape Rodeo” balloon show that showcases the incredible craftsmanship, creativity, and artistry that makes monsters, critters, and just about anything else you can imagine take flight. Many non-traditional, uniquely shaped balloons are launched at the same time. Some of the most famous shapes include a milk cow, a wagon coach, twin bees, and many others like soda pop cans and animals. This is the most popular part of the event as families can see how balloons can be all different in shapes and sizes.