If you are interested in hot air ballooning but are unsure how to get involved, you’ve come to the right place! The first step is to gauge your interest in ballooning. Do you just want to learn more, occasionally go on balloon rides, help on the crew of a balloon, or own and pilot your very own balloon? Here are some ways to gauge your interest:
- Booking a Private Ride – You can search for balloonists offering hot air balloon rides near you and book a private balloon ride with them. This will give you the opportunity to get hands-on experience of how ballooning works, what it’s like to be up in the air in a balloon.
- Visiting a Museum – Visit the Balloon Museum to learn more about the history behind hot air balloons, understand the mechanics of how they work, and determine if you want to go on an actual balloon ride. You can even become a member to gain special museum benefits.
- Going to a Balloon Festival – Plan a trip to a balloon festival to get up close with everything ballooning. You’ll be able to go on balloon rides, talk to pilots and crew, learn about specific balloons and their history, watch how balloons work, view ballooning exhibits and displays, and even find hot air balloon art. A festival is a great place to get started and begin connecting with others in the local ballooning community.
- Becoming a Member of a Balloon Organization – If you are serious about ballooning, consider joining a local balloon organization or club to meet other balloon enthusiasts in your area. You’ll also be able to meet local pilots and crew members. Ask if pilots are searching for more crew members and volunteers to join. There are many organizations that can assist you in your ballooning efforts, so reach out to pilots to find out more information about the local groups!
The Balloon Museum Foundation proudly raises awareness, involvement, and funds for the Balloon Museum. Our goal is to uplift the Museum through project collaboration, artifact donations, and shared information and resources. The Balloon Museum Foundation also holds special events during The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta each year, which is the world’s largest balloon festival that lasts nine days at the beginning of October. The Albuquerque Balloon Museum Foundation hosts the best seat in the house for Balloon Fiesta 2023. Find out more about the Fiesta and how you can support our efforts by becoming a member, donating, volunteering, or purchasing a wall tile today!
