Colorful Timelapse Documents the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta

The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is a one of a kind event held every year in the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Participants come from all across the nation in this nine-day event held in the month of October. Photographer Knate Myers captured the 2014 event over the course of the nine days. He transformed his images into this captivating timelapse footage that captures the chaos, the beauty, and the sheer joy of watching these giant balloons rise up into the air:

The day started with the first wave of balloons forming what is aptly named the “Dawn Patrol” as they rose into the sky. Each balloon was manned by expert pilots and crews who checked the weather and wind conditions for the morning.

Albuquerque balloon festival

Hot air balloons rising in the air at the Albuquerque balloon festival

This first wave was followed by the second wave which consisted of the participants manning colorful balloons. It’s an awe inspiring sight watching these gas filled giants slowly rising in the air then drifting far away, like colorful specs adorning the morning sky as the sun breaks through the horizon.

The chaos and fun at the Albuquerque balloon festival, captured by Knate Myers

The chaos and fun at the Albuquerque balloon festival, captured by Knate Myers

The Sandia Mountains at a distance form a perfect background as the event unfurls with hundreds of more balloons taking to the air.

The Albuquerque Balloon Festival is the largest event of its kind in the world. This once a year event is visited by thousands of people from all across the state, the country, and abroad. It is a perfect fusion of utter chaos, sheer thrill, and joy.

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