Positive hot air

Watch Van Gogh glow, have a breakfast burrito with Rocket J. Squirrel, and let the 47th annual Balloon Fiesta blow the political chatter from your mind

It’s Albuquerque’s signature event, and the timing couldn’t be more perfect.

Of course we’re talking about the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta — a spectacular festival that combines gorgeous fall days with breathtaking views of hundreds of colorful hot air balloons against the backdrop of New Mexico’s majestic blue skies.

It’s a bucket-list experience that draws hundreds of thousands of people from around the world, and it’s right in our backyard.

So if you’re a visitor who made the long trek to Albuquerque to experience this amazing attraction, welcome. And if you’re a local accustomed to balloons blanketing the morning sky this time of year, be sure to take the time to savor the magnificent view and appreciate this world-renowned event — the largest gathering of balloons and balloonists in the world.

It’s a much needed reprieve from the hot air and divisiveness that permeates today’s politics and everyday discussions.

This year’s Balloon Fiesta began Saturday at Balloon Fiesta Park, located in north Albuquerque just west of Interstate 25, and runs through Oct. 14. Nearly 570 balloons from 16 countries will take to the skies. They will include 98 special-shape balloons, including a giant Van Gogh head from the Netherlands, a bulldog from Great Britain and Rocket the flying squirrel from the classic cartoon “Rocky and Bullwinkle.” There will be mass ascensions, special-shape rodeos, balloon glows, pilot flying competitions, laser light shows and evening fireworks.

And some 35 food vendors will be selling everything from burritos and burgers to funnel cakes and doughnuts. “Tens of thousands of people want to get in at the same time, and tens of thousands want to get out at the same time,” says officer Albuquerque police spokesman Simon Drobik. “If you can do a park and ride, definitely do a park and ride.”

The benefits our state reaps from this event go far beyond the gorgeous views we get to enjoy. Balloon Fiesta pumps more than $100 million into the local economy.

Last year’s Balloon Fiesta generated nearly $173 million in total economic impact, with just under $102 million of that coming in direct impact, according to a study commissioned by Balloon Fiesta management. The event generated $10 million in tax receipts.

It also drew an attendance of 887,970 — 64 percent coming from outside New Mexico.

So no matter your politics, your country of origin, or whether you prefer red or green chile, take some time this week to savor the sight of colorful, whimsical globes gliding overhead. It can’t help but bring a smile.

If you go

If you’re planning to enjoy the festivities at Balloon Fiesta Park, you’ll need to get there early, and be patient because traffic tends to be a bear. On weekends, it’s recommended to be in the park by 5 a.m. for morning events and by 4 p.m. for evening events.

Fiesta Express Park & Ride is available Thursday through Sunday at: Coronado Mall, 6600 Menaul NE, at the southwest corner near San Pedro; Hoffmantown Church, 8888 Harper NE at the northeast lot; Intel, NM 528 at Westside Boulevard, south parking lot; and Cottonwood Mall, 10000 Coors Bypass NW, northeast lot.

For morning events, buses will leave between 4:30 a.m. and 7 a.m. For evening events, buses will leave from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m.

See balloonfiesta.com for ticket details.

For those planning to watch the balloons from outside of Balloon Fiesta Park be forewarned that parking is prohibited on interstates, frontage roads, Paseo del Norte, N.M. 313 and Tramway, Alameda and Edith boulevards.

Enjoy the 47th annual Balloon Fiesta. And be safe.