Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta - Local Impact

Local Impact

The convention has also become a major showcase of New Mexican culture and history and features numerous cultural exhibitions. It is a major event for the city of Albuquerque, attracting tourists from across the state, the nation, and even the world. The fiesta is one of Albuquerque's largest tourist attractions and constitutes a major source of income for the city and local businesses. Typically, tourists and fiesta visitors take thousands of pictures of the balloons, so it is no surprise that for several years the fiesta was sponsored by Kodak and was given the title, the Kodak Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, though that title was usually only used in print ads and on official memorabilia. Kodak no longer sponsors the fiesta, and the official name has returned to the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Despite the economic boost, the balloon fiesta is a major problem for the local residents. Increased traffic flows and increased accidents caused by balloon "gawkers" hinder the morning commute. Ballonists often land on private property without permission, causing damage. Balloon accidents, such as getting entangled in powerlines, are not uncommon and are sometimes fatal. The noise of the balloon burners frequently causes upset to dogs and livestock.