Peter Lorenz Chair-Elect Unirac, Inc. | Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce
On December 9, Visit Albuquerque organized a webinar to discuss the economic impact of the 2025 Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which took place in October. Tania Armenta, president and CEO of Visit Albuquerque, led the session.
The event saw a 2% increase in guest visits, reaching 852,000 attendees. However, there was a 3% decrease in registered balloons, totaling 537. The number of daily non-stop seats at the Sunport dropped by 5%, attributed to Spirit Airlines’ bankruptcy. Despite these changes, hotel room nights sold rose by 1%, generating $28 million in revenue.
Officials from the Balloon Fiesta reported favorable weather conditions with only one event canceled. Attendance numbers were just below those recorded before the pandemic in 2019.
Organizers aimed to extend the nine-day impact of the festival and boost midweek interest through additional events such as a Paul McCartney concert at Isleta Amphitheater and Globitos in the Village along Fourth Street in Los Ranchos de Albuquerque.
The event faced challenges due to a federal government shutdown and some weather-related issues but experienced growth in demand and positive feedback from visitors.
Peter Lorenz, chairman of the Board of the Chamber, stated: “Congratulations to everyone who made this year’s Balloon Fiesta another outstanding success. As one of the most recognized events in the world, the Balloon Fiesta does more than fill our skies with color — it brands New Mexico on the global stage and showcases our state to visitors from every corner of the world.”
Next year’s Balloon Fiesta will feature “The Scenic Route” as its theme, focusing on Historic Route 66 as it celebrates its centennial anniversary.
The Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce works with government agencies, businesses, and community partners to support a favorable business environment in Albuquerque (https://www.facebook.com/abqchamber/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel&eid=ARCL0KWsfGH-P1Cmn_M7qWO-9Xwc6cZYhgxMM-hE0DWgebwwQJnHwm0rpuxkYMTSZVIk4AVgBhLD8_I9). The organization also serves as an advocate for business interests and community development while promoting economic growth within the region (https://www.facebook.com/abqchamber/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel&eid=ARCL0KWsfGH-P1Cmn_M7qWO-9Xwc6cZYhgxMM-hE0DWgebwwQJnHwm0rpuxkYMTSZVIk4AVgBhLD8_I9).
