Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally Returns to Las Cruces

The Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally is taking flight Jan. 17-19, 2024, in Las Cruces.

The community is invited to watch hot air balloons take to the skies once again. The free, family-friendly event kicks off 6-9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 17, at the downtown Plaza de Las Cruces with a balloon glow showcasing RC balloons. Spectators can gather to grab a peek at the coming weekend and enjoy colorful and captivating sights. A few vendors will be present with food and drinks for purchase.

On Saturday, Jan. 18, the public is invited to a mass ascension of full-sized and RC balloons from the Field of Dreams, 2300 Tashiro Dr. The ascension is set for sunrise, about 7 a.m., from the southwest lot of the Field of Dreams. An evening glow event will occur about 5:30 p.m. where the full-sized and RC balloons will show off their colors.

The rally will wrap up on Sunday, Jan. 19, with another sunrise mass ascension from the Field of Dreams at approximately 7 a.m.  Spectators will have one last chance at seeing the balloons take flight.

The event is spearheaded by lead organizer Christine Castillas, a native to Las Cruces who moved away and came back in 2023 with a vision to restart the wonderful experience with her fiancée.

“We are so excited to bring the official Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally back to Las Cruces,” Castillas said.

The Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally started in 1977 with just 13 balloons. In 1985 it was named the Whole Enchilada Balloon Rally but was renamed to its current title in 1988. The last rally was held in 2011, making it 14 years since balloons took to Las Cruces skies.

Castillas and the MVBR organizers hope to engage and encourage the community to partake in this event and the sport of hot air ballooning now and in the foreseeable future.

“I’m already looking forward to 2026. We’re talking about what to do differently and some things that are going really well that we want to improve upon,” Castillas said.

Spectators are encouraged to join the MVBR for a fun, free and scenic weekend. There are no public rides available for this event. Attendees are welcome to bring their own seating and on-leash pets are allowed at the owner’s discretion. For more information, visit the Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally website.