ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® to Feature Flight of the Nations

Albuquerque, NM – Twelve countries will be represented at the 53^rd  ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®. International hot air balloon teams will launch from Balloon Fiesta Park throughout the event, October 4-12.

The popular Flight of the Nations Mass Ascension, presented by New Mexico True, will launch as a part of the mid-week Mass Ascension on Wednesday morning, October 8, 2025. The grouped launch of hot air balloons, each flying their country’s flag, will precede the morning flying events starting at 7:00 a.m., weather permitting.

Following the Dawn Patrol, the morning launch will include a special opening ceremony at 7:00 a.m. MDT. Weather permitting, the international pilots will proudly display their respective national colors from their balloon gondolas and envelopes as they lift off from Albuquerque’s Balloon Fiesta Park.

Participating Countries include:

• Belgium
• Brazil
• Canada
• China
• Czech Republic
• Mexico
• Poland
• Spain
• Switzerland
• Thailand
• United Kingdom
• United States of America

The Flight of the Nations is just one of the many global aspects of Balloon Fiesta. The event became international in its second year, with the First World Hot Air Balloon Championship in 1973. Since the 1970s, foreign pilots have been paired with local crews, fostering a unique cultural exchange.

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About the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, Inc.

The ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is an annual festival of hot air balloons that takes place every October in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. It is the largest gathering of balloons and balloonists in the world. For details on events, schedule, entertainment and photographs, visit our website balloonfiesta.com and follow us on Twitter/X and Facebook @BalloonFiesta.