Balloon Run
Scenic race at Bosque School during Balloon Fiesta with 5K, 10 Mile and new Half Marathon and festive race-day perks
A Better Way to Start Balloon Fiesta Weekend!
Balloon Run 2026 takes place on Saturday, October 3, 2026 , the first day of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.
Choose from the Half Marathon (new this year), 10 Mile, or 5K and enjoy a scenic race morning at Bosque School with Rio Grande views, hot air balloons, great swag, music, and a fun, welcoming atmosphere.
Why Balloon Run Local. Scenic. Fun. Worth It. Balloon Run is built to give runners and families a high-quality race experience with real value.
Organized by locals Supports local causes Scenic Rio Grande course Hot air balloon views Start and finish at Bosque School Family-friendly atmosphere Professional chip timing Great swag and race-day perks Run with Olympians!
Distances
Something for everyone Half Marathon — New for 2026 10 Mile 5K Whether you are racing hard, running for fun, or making it part of a family weekend, there is a distance for you.
Participant Perks More included. More to enjoy. All participants receive:
Long sleeve race shirt Big 'Ol Finisher medal Chip timing Custom fun bib Post-race snacks and brews
Half Marathon and 10 Mile participants also receive:
Race hat Spike bag (UPDATE: ON SOCKS) Sunglasses Energy gel station
*** 9/28 update: LATE ENTRY! Due to many of you wanting to race, we opened a special late entry. No shirts, hats, sunglasses, or spike bags. Just an opportunity to run the race with a special hot air balloon-shaped bib number. You still get a medal - just a different balloon shape without 2026 on it. You still can enjoy the post-race festival, free race photos, opportunity to score and place in the top 3.
Race-Day Experience
More than just a race Music Hot air balloon views Great photo opportunities Costume contest prize Overall and age group awards 5K warm-up led by a 2020 and 2024 Olympian It is a race morning that feels festive, polished, and easy to enjoy.