2027 Balloon Run
Balloon Run launches Balloon Fiesta weekend with Rio Grande views and balloons above.
Expected Race Date
~Oct 2027
Date not yet announced — this is when the race usually runs.
Location
Albuquerque, NM
Quick facts
- Date
- around October 2027 (expected)
- Location
- Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Distance
- Half marathon (13.1 mi)
- Course
- Loop Course
- Terrain
- Road
- USATF certified
- Not listed
Highlights
Good For
Atmosphere
Course
The Experience
Balloon Run takes place on the opening day of the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, offering a half marathon (new for 2026), 10-mile, and 5K. The scenic course runs along the Rio Grande at Bosque School, with hot air balloons dotting the morning sky. This family-friendly event features music, a costume contest, and a 5K warm-up led by an Olympian.
The out-and-back route is flat and fast, perfect for a PR or a fun run. All participants receive a long-sleeve shirt, a finisher medal, and post-race snacks and brews. Half marathon and 10-mile runners also get a hat, spike bag, and sunglasses. The atmosphere is festive and welcoming, with chip timing and professional organization. It's a unique way to start Balloon Fiesta weekend, combining local charm with a high-quality race experience.
Race-provided description
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 RunLocal. Scenic. Fun. Worth It.Balloon Run is built to give runners and families a high-quality race experience with real value. Organized by localsSupports local causesScenic Rio Grande courseHot air balloon viewsStart and finish at Bosque SchoolFamily-friendly atmosphereProfessional chip timingGreat swag and race-day perksRun with Olympians! Distances Something for everyoneHalf Marathon — New for 202610 Mile5KWhether you are racing hard, running for fun, or making it part of a family weekend, there is a distance for you. Participant PerksMore included. More to enjoy.All participants receive: Long sleeve race shirtBig 'Ol Fini…
Logistics
Race Day
around October 2027 (expected)
Start Time
TBA
Start Location
4000 Bosque School Rd NW, Albuquerque, NM, 87120
Course Info
Course Type
Loop Course
Terrain
road
Scenery
Lake River, Forest
Difficulty
Rolling Hills
Quality Score
first year
no finisher counts yet
small race — neutral
needs a few years of results
2 timing sources
no finisher data yet
no winner time yet
typical high 80°F
Frequently asked
When is the 2027 Balloon Run?
The 2027 Balloon Run hasn't announced its next date yet, but it typically takes place around October 2027 (expected).
Where does the 2027 Balloon Run take place?
It takes place in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
What distances does the 2027 Balloon Run offer?
The half marathon (13.1 miles).
Is the 2027 Balloon Run course flat and good for a PR?
The 2027 Balloon Run is a rolling hills, loop course course.
HalfRuns editorial — independent, no paid placement.
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