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Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

Albuquerque Balloon FiestaSee the Mass Ascension of balloons and more during this five-day vacation in colorful New Mexico. Experience the pre-dawn Opening Ceremonies and the unforgettable Mass Ascension of hundreds of hot air balloons, turning the sky into a rainbow of colors. Spend time in Santa Fe before attending the Balloon Glow and After Glow Fireworks Show. The next day, visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center and enjoy a special farewell dinner atop Albuquerque’s Sandia Peak.

5 Days, 4 Nights

Departure Date
10/2/2008
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Itinerary
Day 1
Albuquerque
(Thu., Oct. 2) Welcome to Albuquerque! This evening, mix and mingle with your traveling companions at the 6 p.m. welcome reception. (WR)
Day 2
Albuquerque
(Fri., Oct. 3) This morning, an Albuquerque sightseeing tour includes a visit to the Old Town and the International Balloon Museum, dedicated to the art, culture, science, history, sport, and spectacle of ballooning. Also visit the INDIAN PUEBLO CULTURAL CENTER, a fascinating museum and crafts market collectively run by the 19 New Mexico pueblos. Afternoon at leisure to explore on your own. (B)
Day 3
Albuquerque
(Sat., Oct. 4) Today, get ready for the beginning of the world famous Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Experience this morning’s pre-dawn OPENING CEREMONIES and the unforgettable MASS ASCENSION—where hundreds of hot air balloons take off and turn the sky into a virtual rainbow of colors. What began as a gathering of thirteen balloons thirty years ago has since turned into the largest ballooning event in the world. The balance of the day is at leisure. (B)
Day 4
Albuquerque
Excursion to Santa Fe
(Sun., Oct 5) Journey north through dramatic landscapes to Santa Fe, the oldest seat of government in the United States. Experience this city up-close as you embark on a guided WALKING TOUR, including the San Miguel Mission, the Palace of the Governors, the State Capitol, and LORETTO CHAPEL’S “Miracle Stairway.” Enjoy a farewell celebration lunch before returning to Albuquerque and the Balloon Fiesta to catch the popular BALLOON GLOW and AFTER GLOW FIREWORKS SHOW this evening. (B,L)
Day 5
Albuquerque
(Mon., Oct. 6) The vacation ends this morning with tour guests departing on individual schedules. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, WR = Welcome Reception