The Red Rock Balloon Rally is one of the biggest ballooning events in the USA. Held during the first week of December, the Red Rock Balloon Rally has been an annual event since 1981. It features about 200 balloons as well as pilots and crew members from all over the world. The festival's main advantage is its beautiful location. Thousands of spectators gather to see the amazing sight of colorful balloons over beautiful canyons and red rock sandstone bluffs. Red Rock Park, located near Gallup, New Mexico, becomes a real balloonist’s paradise during this free three-day festival.
Festival Schedule
Mass balloon liftoffs take place every morning at Red Rock Park and Fox Run Golf Course in Gallup. On Saturday and Sunday, the ballooning begins with Dawn Patrol at 6:30 am, while the balloon launches begin at 7:30 am each day of the festival. Ascents feature various "special shape" balloons from all over North America, including the festival's own Koshare Gallup.
Pilots also participate in balloon races, competing for Native American-crafted jewelry, pottery, and carpets. On Sunday morning at 10 am, stop by the Red Rock Park for an awards ceremony, brunch and an auction, where you can buy gorgeous Native American crafts and art pieces, as well as other prizes.
Balloon Glow Displays (December 6-7)
On Friday, the first day of the festival, you'll also have a chance to see a spectacular Glow in The Rocks display and Native American dance performances near the Navajo reservation, both at 6:30 pm. The balloons will hover over the ground with ignited engines, creating an illusion of hundreds of large sky lanterns in the sky. A similar event, Balloominaria, will also take place on Saturday at 6:30 pm at Rio West Mall.
Pyramid Rock Run (December 7)
If you're up for a challenge and would like to warm up in the cold December weather, sign up for a Pyramid Rock Run, an annual race, which takes place at Red Rock Park at 8:30 am. Try to push your limits during a marathon, while observing the magnificent sights of New Mexican nature.
Downtown Gallup Christmas Parade (December 7)
The Red Rock Balloon Rally conveniently coincides with the Downtown Gallup Christmas Parade, usually taking place at 1 pm from 8th Street. If you still haven't felt the Christmas spirit yet, this event will do that job for you with the holiday floats and merriment all around. Feel free to watch the the procession and explore the nearby shops and local businesses, who open their doors to visitors during the holiday season.
Entertainment
In addition to ascensions and balloon glows the Red Rock Balloon Rally features plenty of entertainment: an art show, dozens of local vendors, a plethora of food and beverage options, and, of course, spectacular sights. Visitors can enjoy local meals and warm up near the bonfire while watching dance performances and immersing in the incredible atmosphere of America's Southwest.
Location & Admission
Red Rock Park is an amazing hiking destination, where sandstone bluffs and canyons serve as the beautiful backdrop for the colorful hot air balloons. These rocks were formed 205 million years ago, during the Jurassic era. The park is located 9 miles (14 km) outside of Gallup and is located right in Church Rock. Admission to the festival is completely free. However, for all events at Red Rock Park, you have to pay a small fee of $5 for parking.
