Albuquerque Balloon Festival and Sante Fe New Mexico

September 30 - October 4th, 2011
$1,159

Up, Up, and Away!
Imagine a blue sky filled with a kaleidoscope of dazzling colors and shapes. That’s what you’ll experience at the world’s largest balloon event, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Your spirits will soar as you watch more than 700 balloons from all over the world ascend into the skies over Albuquerque. Rise bright and early to witness the Opening Ceremonies, which are followed by a grand “mass ascension,” as hundreds of balloons – some vibrant, some whimsical – fill the skies over the grounds.

During your visit, you’ll also enjoy the Balloon Glow, a signature Fiesta event that’s guaranteed to set the night sky ablaze. Just before dusk, nearly 500 balloons are tethered over the fiesta grounds. In unison, the pilots set their burners aglow, creating a luminous, magical display, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. It’s a pyrotechnical display you’ll not soon forget

Santa Fe and Beyond
We’ll head north along the picturesque Jemez Mountains to Santa Fe, the oldest capital city in the United States. You can visit one of the wonders of Santa Fe’s historic district, Loretto Chapel. Constructed in 1873, this striking gothic chapel houses the Miraculous Staircase, a marvel of architectural ingenuity that some claim was designed and built by St. Joseph himself!  For the shoppers, Santa Fe is a South Western haven. Governor’s Plaza is home to various shops and artists studios.

Don't Miss the Event!
Spectacular sights await at the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta! Don’t miss this chance to feel the joy and excitement of this world famous event!

Albuquerque Balloon Festival and Santa Fe Singles Weekend Itinerary

Day One - Friday
Your Singles weekend begins when you arrive in Albuquerque and are transferred to our hotel.
Meet your Singles Hostess at 7 p.m. in the lobby and walk over to a local restaurant for dinner (not included)

Day Two - Saturday
Wake Up Early! Today we attend the Balloon Fiesta Opening Ceremonies and “Mass Ascension” at sunrise. A sight not to be missed.

After the Balloons are gone, we will walk over to the Anderson-Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum. The museum presents the development of ballooning through historic, scientific and artistic objects reflecting world-wide achievements. A decorative art collection includes historic jewelry, decorated boxes, crockery, place settings, glassware and more. A large grouping of ballooning memorabilia illustrates the importance of keepsakes across time and space. Included are early pins, certificates, calling cards, and World War I era collectible porcelains, as well as more recent items.

It is time for lunch in Old Town or head back to the hotel for some rest.

Tonight we enjoy the Balloon Glow and fireworks display at dusk. A memorable evening as we watch as the balloons fill up and glow. You can also get your fill of junk food at the festival.

Day Three - Sunday
One day is never enough to see the mass ascension of balloons at sunrise. So let's do it again today! 

After the balloons are gone... By popular demand: the Sandia Peak Tramway! 

Sandia Mountain dominates the east-side of Albuquerque with its 5,000’ vertical rise.  A visit to the top of this mountain is a much sought after experience by visitors.  The tram ride itself is 15-minutes and travels through a few biological life zones, revealing deep canyons and an awe-inspiring view not soon to be forgotten.  Notes: Due to the elevation, 10,378’, individuals with heart conditions or respiratory problems should consult their doctor before riding the tram.  Dress in layers; the temperature can be 20 degrees cooler than in the city. 

Day Four - Monday
This morning we head to Santa Fe by way of the Rapid bus and train. All aboard our 1 1/2 hour train ride to Santa Fe.  Enjoy free time in Santa Fe to have lunch, shop the numerous stores of the local vendor or to visit Loretto Chapel Museum with its miraculous staircase.

We board our returning train at 4pm. Upon arrival in Albuquerque we will be met at the train station and transferred to our hotel in time to change for our Farewell Dinner.

Tonight enjoy our Farewell Dinner at El Pinto Mexican Restaurant. Established in 1962, El Pinto has been featuring traditional New Mexican recipes from grandmother Josephina Chavez-Griggs ever since.

 Day Five - Tuesday
Transfer to Albuquerque Airport for flights home and the end of another Best Single Travel weekend.

Albuquerque Balloon Festival Singles Weekend Tour September 30 - October 4 2011 Price  - $1159 *4 Nights Hotel * Farewell Dinner * Airport Transfers, * Admissions to Balloon Festival & Glow * All activities in itinerary * Singles Travel Hostess The price per person is for a double room. Best Single Travel provides free roommate matching so there is never a need to pay a "single supplement". If you wish your own room the price is an additional $450. Hotel Accommodations Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Uptown * Indoor Pool * Health & Fitness Center * Free WiFi

Deposit - $300 Balance Due August 25          Click to See More Balloon Festival Photos