2. The first balloon event in Albuquerque took place on April 8, 1972, at Coronado Shopping Center. Thirteen balloons participated.

5. The first event to be called the "Balloon Fiesta" took place in 1975, in the fall.

8. The first Special Shapes Glowdeo began with just 28 special shape balloons.

11. Because the event has an excellent safety record, the Balloon Fiesta is one of the only balloon events where viewers can walk among the balloons and talk to the pilots.

14. The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is the largest annual international event held in the United States.

17. The Dawn Patrol began at the Balloon Fiesta in 1978, when two California balloonists developed position lighting systems that allowed them to fly at night.

20. Balloon Fiesta Park is the size of 56 Football Fields.

23. Inflated hot air balloons are around 70 feet tall.