Balloon Run 2026

Balloon Run starts and finishes at Bosque School in Albuquerque, with runners choosing a half marathon, 10-mile race, or 5K on the opening morning of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The races begin early, so the main spectacle is already overhead: hundreds of hot air balloons rising while runners move along the Rio Grande. It is a local race with chip timing, race shirts for all participants, music, and a setup aimed at both serious runners and families making a morning of it. The course follows the Rio Grande area, giving runners open views of the river and the balloon launch instead of a closed-in city route. The half marathon is the newest distance, while the 10-mile and 5K options keep the event accessible for people who want a shorter run. Local organizers run the event, it supports local causes, and the warm-up is led by a local two-time Olympian. Reviews point to simple parking and check-in, friendly volunteers, clean timing, and a more personal feel than the bigger balloon-themed races in town.