White Sands Balloon Invitational returns

ALAMOGORDO, N.M. — The White Sands Balloon Invitational will return to southern New Mexico for its 34th year on Saturday, Sept. 19, and Sunday, Sept. 20.

The weekend will begin with a mass ascension at White Sands National Park at 7 a.m. Saturday. The park charges a $25 per vehicle entrance fee.

A second ascension will take place Sunday at Ed Brabson Balloon Park, 700 Lavelle Road in Alamogordo. Admission to Sunday's event is free.

Organizers said they are also working to include Globitos in this year's flights.

The 2026 event will focus primarily on the balloons and the tradition behind the invitational. Organizers said there will be no balloon glow, entertainment or vendors this year, although those features could return in the future.

The invitational traces its history to 1992, when Ed Brabson organized Alamogordo's first balloon liftoff with 18 balloons. Brabson Balloon Park, where Sunday's ascension will be held, now bears his name.

Visitors staying in the area can also attend a stargazing party Saturday evening at the New Mexico Museum of Space History. Telescopes and experts will be available for the event.

Organizers said some third-party websites continue to display outdated information about the invitational and are encouraging visitors to use the event's official website and Facebook page for the latest details.

The White Sands Balloon Invitational Committee is also accepting sponsorships from businesses and individuals.