Balloon Run
Balloon Run launches Balloon Fiesta weekend with Rio Grande views and balloons above.
Race Date
Oct 3, 2026
Location
Albuquerque, NM
Quick facts
- Date
- Saturday, October 3, 2026
- Location
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Out & Back
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Balloon Run takes place on the opening day of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, offering a half marathon (new for 2026), 10-mile, and 5K. The scenic course runs along the Rio Grande at Bosque School, with hot air balloons dotting the morning sky. This family-friendly event features music, a costume contest, and a 5K warm-up led by an Olympian.
The out-and-back route is flat and fast, perfect for a PR or a fun run. All participants receive a long-sleeve shirt, a finisher medal, and post-race snacks and brews. Half marathon and 10-mile runners also get a hat, spike bag, and sunglasses. The atmosphere is festive and welcoming, with chip timing and professional organization. It's a unique way to start Balloon Fiesta weekend, combining local charm with a high-quality race experience.
Race-provided description
A Better Way to Start Balloon Fiesta Weekend! Balloon Run 2026 takes place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, the first day of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. Choose from the Half Marathon (new this year), 10 Mile, or 5K and enjoy a scenic race morning at Bosque School with Rio Grande views, hot air balloons, great swag, music, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Why Balloon Run Local. Scenic. Fun. Worth It. Balloon Run is built to give runners and families a high-quality race experience with real value. Organized by localsSupports local causesScenic Rio Grande courseHot air balloon viewsStart and finish at Bosque SchoolFamily-friendly atmosphereProfessional chip timingGreat swag and race-day perksRun with Olympians! Distances Something for everyone Half Marathon — New for 2026 10 Mile 5K Whether you are racing hard, running for fun, or making it part of a family weekend, there is a distance for you. Participant Perks More included. More to enjoy. All participants receive: Long sleeve race shirtBig 'Ol Finisher medalChip timingCustom fun bibPost-race snacks and brews Half Marathon and 10 Mile participants also receive: Race hatSpike bagSunglassesEnergy gel station Race-Day Experience More than just a race Music Hot air balloon views Great photo opportunities Costume contest prize Overall and age group awards 5K warm-up led by a 2020 and 2024 Olympian It is a race morning that feels festive, polished, and easy to enjoy.
Logistics
Race Day
Saturday, October 3, 2026
Start Time
7:00 AM
Giveaway
Long-Sleeve Shirt
Start Location
4000 Bosque School Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87120
Course Info
Course Type
Out & Back
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Forest
Difficulty
Ultra-Flat
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
2 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 80°F
Race Day Weather
5-year historical avgStart (Low)
57°
Afternoon (High)
80°
Warm — hydration strategy is key, start conservatively
0.0"
Precipitation
13 mph
Wind
36%
Humidity
Frequently asked
When is the Balloon Run?
The Balloon Run is held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, starting at 7:00 AM.
Where does the Balloon Run take place?
It takes place in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
What distances does the Balloon Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the Balloon Run course flat and good for a PR?
The Balloon Run is a ultra-flat, out & back course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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