The Zozobra hot air balloon is embarking on a statewide journey from fall 2025 through early 2026. Modeled after Santa Fe’s “Old Man Gloom,” this towering 135-foot special shape balloon, accompanied by a smaller 42-foot version, will appear at balloon rallies and community gatherings throughout New Mexico.
The Zozobra Balloon Tour schedule includes evening balloon glows, early morning launches, and a prominent role at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world’s largest hot air ballooning event.
These appearances serve as a preview of the 102nd Burning of Zozobra, planned for September 4, 2026.
Fast Facts
- The Zozobra Balloon Tour happens from October 2025 to mid-January 2026.
- The balloon is 135 feet tall, among the largest special shape balloons flown in New Mexico.
- The Santa Fe glow event is free and open to the public.
- Collectible balloon pins and merchandise will be available at several stops.
Zozobra Balloon Tour Schedule
Get ready to soar above the Land of Enchantment! The Zozobra Balloon Tour combines spectacular hot air balloons with the excitement of Santa Fe’s most iconic tradition. Here’s when and where you can catch the action.
October 1–2, 2025
Pojoaque, NM
- Light Up the Links Balloon Glow at Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino
Zozobra glows after sunset at a Northern New Mexico resort setting. - Buffalo Thunder
October 3, 2025
Santa Fe, NM
- Santa Fe Zozobra Balloon Glow at Villa Linda Park
A free community event in the city where the Zozobra tradition began. - Burn Zozobra
October 9–10, 2025
Albuquerque, NM
- Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta at Special Shape Days
A chance to see Zozobra among dozens of creative balloon designs at Balloon Fiesta Park. - AIBF
October 25–26, 2025
Alcalde, NM
- Rio Grande Sky Fiesta at Los Luceros Historic Site
Launches at sunrise highlight fall colors along the Rio Grande and the historic setting of Los Luceros. - Rio Grande Sky Fiesta
November 8, 2025
Rio Rancho, NM
- Albuquerque Aerostat Ascension Association (AAAA) Flying Event
Monthly community launch featuring Zozobra in flight with local pilots. - HotAirBallooning.org
December 5–7, 2025
Gallup, NM
- Red Rock Balloon Rally
One of the nation’s largest balloon rallies, set against Gallup’s dramatic sandstone cliffs. - Red Rock Balloon Rally
January 16–19, 2026
Las Cruces, NM
- Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally
Zozobra makes a first-ever appearance in Southern New Mexico at this revived festival. - Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally
What Does Zozobra Represent?
- Cultural roots: Zozobra, introduced in 1924, is a 50-foot puppet that is burned each year in Santa Fe as a symbolic act of letting go of hardship and worry.
- The balloon connection: Transforming Zozobra into a hot air balloon extends this tradition by sharing the image across the state.
- Why it matters: Ballooning is a defining element of New Mexico’s identity, and this project merges two long-standing cultural traditions: Santa Fe’s Zozobra and Albuquerque’s global ballooning reputation.
Zozobra Balloon Tour FAQ
When can I see the Zozobra Balloon in Santa Fe?
The balloon will appear at the Santa Fe Zozobra Balloon Glow on October 3, 2025, from 6–8:30 p.m. at Villa Linda Park.
Is the Zozobra Balloon Glow in Santa Fe free?
Yes. The October 3, 2025, Santa Fe event is open to the public at no cost.
Can I see Zozobra in other nearby locations before the main event?
Yes. Zozobra will also appear at Buffalo Thunder Resort & Casino in Pojoaque, October 1–2, 2025, for an evening glow.
How tall is the Zozobra Balloon?
The main balloon stands about 135 feet tall, making it one of the largest special shape balloons in New Mexico.
Are there collectibles or merchandise available?
Yes. Balloon pins and other memorabilia will be available at select events, including Santa Fe.
See Zozobra Fly
The Zozobra Balloon Tour 2025–2026 offers multiple opportunities to experience one of New Mexico’s most distinctive cultural icons in a new way. From Santa Fe to Las Cruces, the tour links communities through shared tradition and sky-high spectacle, culminating in anticipation for the 102nd Burning of Zozobra in September 2026.
Volunteer today for chase crewing.
See the full schedule and donate to the Zozobra Balloon Tour.
This article was posted by Jess
