Mass balloon ascensions are scheduled daily at Red Rock Park and other select locations. "Special shape" balloons will participate in the rally from around the country, including Red Rock Balloon Rally’s very own Koshare Gallup. Balloonists will also compete for Native American-crafted jewelry, pottery and rugs in events such as a hare and hound race, judge-declared goal race and more.
Additional festivities during the three days include: Native American jewelry and art vendors; Native American dance performances (as Gallup is in close proximity to the Navajo reservation, and the pueblos of Zuni, Laguna and Acoma); a parade in downtown Gallup; an art show; and nightly balloon glows. The city of Gallup also has a wide variety of restaurants, galleries, museums and other attractions for visitors to enjoy.
The Red Rock Balloon Rally has received numerous awards, including “Best Balloon Event in The West” (Ballooning Magazine), “Most Outstanding Event” (New Mexico Tourism Association), “Outstanding Community Event” (Gallup Chamber of Commerce).
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the Red Rock Balloon Rally. What began as a small but earnest effort by four individuals to share the unique flying challenge offered in the incredible red rock formations east of Gallup, New Mexico has grown into one of the largest ballooning events in the world.
The Red Rock Balloon Rally Association, which hosts the balloon rally, has been uplifting the Gallup community since 1981, partnering with many non-profit groups and contributing tens of thousands of dollars to their fund raising efforts. The Association is run by an all volunteer committee and has never had a paid staff which speaks loudly to the dedication of its members.