The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta will not require vaccinations to attend outdoor activities at this year’s event in New Mexico. Masks are still required for indoor activities and in large crowds.

The decision to not require vaccination was made by organizers of the annual event, which features hot air balloons and attracts spectators from all over the world.  “We feel it is the prudent decision to make as far as following the public health order as well as the CDC guidelines,” said Tom Garrity, spokesman for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

The Fiesta, set to run from Oct. 2 to Oct. 10, began in 1972 with 13 balloons, but now features nearly 600 hot-air balloons and 700 pilots from all over the world. The sea of balloons creates breath-taking beauty as they sail throughout the Rio Grande Valley.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is not exactly thrilled by the decision, though the state mandate requires facemasks to be worn in all public indoor spaces. Her press secretary issued a statement to KOB4 that read, "Masking remains one of the most effective tools against COVID-19 that we have, so while we’re encouraged by the adherence to the state mask mandate, we are disappointed they have chosen not to take an extra step to prioritize the well-being of New Mexicans and visitors to our state by requiring vaccinations.”

Garrity said that the fiesta had approximately 80,000 attendees in 2019, and even with large crowds, the decision to not require vaccinations was made with consideration. There will be ample hand-washing and sanitizing stations available.  

 "Our main focus is staging a safe event for our pilots, for our chase crew, and also for our guests,” Garrity said.