2026 General Schedule of Events*
- January 16 - Media and School Day - Sunrise (around 7am) at the Field of Dreams (2300 Tashiro Dr, Las Cruces, NM 88007) and select schools around the city. Corporate balloons will have a chance to showcase their special balloons at the Field of Dreams. Five selected schools around the city will have one full-size and one RC balloon at their school. There is one more surprise in store the whole city will get to enjoy!
- January 16 - Kick Off Glow- 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Downtown Plaza (100 N Main St, Las Cruces, NM 88001). The RC (radio controlled) balloons gather and glow in the Downtown plaza to give spectators a taste of the sights and sounds of the upcoming weekend.
- January 17 - Morning Ascension - Sunrise (around 7am) at the Field of Dreams (2300 Tashiro Dr, Las Cruces, NM 88007). The Full Size Balloons inflate, launch and fly in the morning from the southwest lot (the dirt lot )of the Field of Dreams . The RC balloons put on their show in the west parking lot of Field of Dreams
- January 17 - Evening Glow - Sunset (around 5:30pm) at the Field of Dreams (2300 Tashiro Dr, Las Cruces, NM 88007). All full-size and RC balloons show off their colors in the night. Come revel in the magic!
- January 18 - Morning Ascension - Sunrise (around 7am) at the Field of Dreams (2300 Tashiro Dr, Las Cruces, NM 88007). Once again, the Full Size Balloons take to the skies from the dirt lot. The RC balloons will strut their stuff in west parking lot.
* NOTE: Keep in mind that this sport is dependent on good weather. Safety is of the utmost importance with weather as a major factor when making the determination of when to fly. If the weather is too windy (more than 10 mph) or if there are storms within 50 miles, most pilots will not risk flying. The pilots have the final say-so of when to fly.
Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally – Safety & Operational Guidelines
For the safety of all participants, spectators, and equipment, the following policies will be enforced during the Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally at the Field of Dreams:
Drone Operations:
Only NMCO is authorized to operate drones in and around the Field of Dreams during rally weekend. Unauthorized drone use is strictly prohibited and may result in removal from the event.
Pets:
Due to high spectator traffic and the operational nature of balloon activities, pets are strongly discouraged. Pets in the event area are at risk of injury. Additionally, any contact with balloons or equipment by pet waste can cause significant damage to the balloon system and pose a safety concern for attendees.
We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone. Thank you for helping make the Mesilla Valley Balloon Rally a safe and memorable experience.
Downtown Plaza (100 N Main St, Las Cruces, NM 88001)
Field of Dreams (2300 Tashiro Dr, Las Cruces, NM 88007)
