BLM New Mexico gets carried away at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

Story and photos by BLM New Mexico

On October 6, more than 500 colorful hot air balloons took flight in the early hours of the morning at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Thousands of people attended the event held at the Balloon Fiesta Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The Balloon Fiesta is the largest ballooning event in the world and the most photographed event on the planet.

The BLM New Mexico State Office and Albuquerque District Office teamed up with the New Mexico Tourism Department to talk to hundreds of balloon enthusiasts about recreation opportunities in New Mexico. BLM New Mexico has been participating in the Balloon Fiesta for over 5 years.

"The balloon fiesta is a great event. With nearly a million guests - many from out of town - over the nine-day event, it's the perfect place for us to share information about public lands around New Mexico and the Southwest," said BLM New Mexico Chief of Communications Cathy Garber. "It's also a lot of fun to see how many people recognize Seymour the Antelope, BLM's Youth Mascot, and how excited the kids are to get their photos taken with him."

Four volunteers from BLM New Mexico spent the morning educating visitors about public land opportunities in the area. Handouts on BLM recreation opportunities near Albuquerque were available along with posters celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Wild & Scenic Rivers and National Trails System Acts.

The most popular attraction at the booth was Seymour the Antelope who spent the morning handing out temporary tattoos and encouraging his friends to visit public lands.  He even spent some time with the National Park Service's Bandelier Squirrel.

The Balloon Fiesta was a great opportunity to share information about the BLM and encourage the public to get out and enjoy their public lands.

For more information on the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta go to www.balloonfiesta.com.