2026 Balloon Run is taking place on the first Saturday of the Balloon Fiesta - OCTOBER 3rd, 2026.
This will be the 3rd edition, and we added a half-marathon to the schedule. Events available: 5k, 10mile, and half-marathon.
The race starts at the beautiful Bosque School grounds and continues along the Paseo Del Bosque Trail towards the 700+ hot air balloons flying overhead, sometimes even landing right on the path.
All finishers receive:
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custom balloon shape bib number
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chip-timed race
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official result time
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finisher's medal (balloon shape)
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tech long sleeve with a custom logo
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post-race drinks, snacks
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free photos
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10-milers and half-marathoners will also receive sunglasses, a spike bag, and a dry-fit hat
Events
Half Marathon
Perks
Event Highlights
YOU LEAVE WITH A PIECE OF BALLOON FIESTA
WARM UP LEAD BY A LOCAL
2 X OLYMPIAN
UNINTERRUPTED WAY TO EXPERIENCE 500+ BALLOONS
RUNNERS FIRST DESIGN
Reviews
Loved the atmosphere. Great energy, friendly volunteers, and a beautiful course. The balloons added something special you just don’t get at other races. I’ve done the big balloon run before, and this is on a different level. More personal, better organized, and way more enjoyable. I’ll be back every year.
Brian L., Phoenix
You can tell this was put together by someone who understands runners. The course made sense, the timing was clean, and everything flowed. Plus the sunrise with balloons over Rio Grande was unreal.
Jessica R., Santa Fe
Everything was simple and easy, in the best way. Parking, check-in, start line, no confusion. Just show up, run, and enjoy a really special setting.”
David K., Los Alamos
The mix of high quality organization, beautiful nature and balloons made this feel like a destination race. It was peaceful, beautiful, and really well executed.
Arlene A., Austin
