Visit Albuquerque just unveiled what they call “a floating billboard” for tourism, coming to a border state near you. To mark the 50th anniversary of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the agency unveiled its official hot air balloon.
“With its ‘Red or Green?’ theme, the balloon brings together two beloved Albuquerque treasures – chile and ballooning,” according to a press release. Sponsored and operated by Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride Co., it will make its debut at the 2022 Ballon Fiesta After it makes its debut at the 2022 Balloon Fiesta. Then it will become a flying ad in New Mexico, Arizona and Colorado to promote travel to Albuquerque throughout the year
“Rainbow Ryders is proud and honored to sponsor and operate the Visit Albuquerque balloon, particularly as the organization has been a longtime partner and supporter of our business,” said Scott Appelman, Founder & CEO of Rainbow Ryders Hot Air Balloon Ride Co. “This balloon is a celebration and Albuquerque and New Mexico and is sure to be popular with visitors and locals alike.”
Only New Mexico also has an official state question: “Red or Green?” It’s a delicious decision for diners who choose either red or green chile to top authentic New Mexican dishes – or “Christmas,” meaning both.
According to the press release, the Visit Albuquerque balloon was designed by McKee Wallwork in Albuquerque. “One side of the balloon’s envelope features a green chile pepper and the other features a red chile pepper,” the release states. “It is a 2022 Cameron A-225 and is 85’ tall, 58’ wide at equator and features a 225,000-cubic-foot envelope.” The gondola can hold 10-12 passengers.
“We hope that residents will be proud to see this balloon in Albuquerque’s skies and that visitors will share in the joy and passion that this balloon represents,” said President and CEO Tania Armenta.
For more information, go to www.VisitABQ.org.