The world's largest hot air balloon event — hundreds of balloons filling the New Mexico sky at once today — began as a single-day radio station promotion, with 13 balloons, a snowstorm that stranded half the planned pilots, and a game of aerial tag played out over a shopping mall parking lot.
A Radio Station's Idea
In 1972, Albuquerque's KOB 770 AM Radio was approaching its 50th anniversary, and general manager Tom McKee asked local balloonist Sid Cutter to organize a ballooning event to mark the occasion. Cutter had bought his own hot air balloon the year before and founded the Albuquerque Aerostat Ascension Association — he's still remembered today as the father of hot air ballooning in Albuquerque.
13 Balloons, One Snowstorm
The first event, billed as the KOB Radio and Television International Balloon Festival & Rally, took place on April 8, 1972. Cutter had lined up 21 pilots to attend, but a snowstorm in the Midwest stranded a significant number of them before they could reach Albuquerque — leaving just 13 balloons to actually inflate and fly on the day.
Roadrunner and Coyote in a Parking Lot
Those 13 balloons launched from the parking lot of Coronado Center, a local shopping mall, for a modified version of a traditional ballooning Hare & Hound Race, reworked with a Southwestern theme as 'Roadrunner and Coyote.' Sid Cutter flew the roadrunner balloon, while the other 12 pilots played coyotes, chasing and trying to land near his balloon's target.
From 13 Balloons to Hundreds
The growth from that modest, weather-disrupted first year was immediate and dramatic: by the following year, the number of participating pilots had grown to 111, including seven of the original 13. What began as a one-off radio anniversary stunt, saved from complete failure only by 13 pilots who managed to reach Albuquerque despite a snowstorm, became the foundation of what's now the largest hot air balloon event in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was the first Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta organized?
As a promotional event for local radio station KOB 770 AM's 50th anniversary in 1972, organized by balloonist Sid Cutter at the station's request.
How many balloons flew at the first event?
Just 13, after a Midwest snowstorm stranded many of the 21 pilots Sid Cutter had originally lined up to attend.
How fast did the event grow after its first year?
Very fast — the number of participating pilots grew from 13 to 111 in just one year, including seven pilots who had flown in the original 1972 event.
Sarah Mitchell
Verified ExpertTravel Writer & Expert
Sheraz is a passionate world traveler and the founder of Travel Guides Finder. With years of experience exploring diverse cultures, tasting authentic cuisines, and navigating complex visa requirements, he curates expert guides to help you travel smarter and safer.
