This week on What's Up Wednesday, we're featuring more late arrivals to the Gift Shop and giving you a preview of our special shopping hours for Balloon Fiesta 2026.
Last week we told you about our new Special Shapes adult T-shirt. This week it's the kids' version. It features the same blue color, long-sleeve design, and performance fabric, but with different fun shapes on the front, back, and both sleeves. Your kids will love wearing this one. Pick one up for the little ones, and don't forget to revisit the adult version for yourself.
Here in Albuquerque, the forecast finally calls for temperatures below 90 degrees for the first time in quite a while. Almost sweatshirt weather... well, by Albuquerque standards! That means it's time to introduce our latest arrival—the Leather Balloon Crew Sweatshirt. This rich chocolate brown crew sweatshirt is made for Balloon Fiesta fans who want their gear to stand out both on the field and long after the balloons have landed. At the heart of the design is a striking leather-look screen print featuring the iconic AIBF balloon inside a vintage oval badge, flanked by bold "2026" numerals and arched "Balloon Fiesta®" lettering in warm gold tones with a stitched-edge effect.
The calendar says we're just about two weeks away from the start of the 54th Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®. That also means special shopping hours begin late next week. On Thursday and Friday before Balloon Fiesta—October 1 and 2—our brand-new merchandise tent on the field will open for business.
This year we've completely reimagined the on-field shopping experience. All of our merchandise has been consolidated into one beautiful 11,000-square-foot tent at the south end of Balloon Fiesta Park. We've added glass entry doors, windows, and even a real floor to create a brighter, more comfortable shopping experience. With more room to display merchandise, you'll be able to browse, compare, and get a closer look at your favorite items before making your selections. We think you're going to love the new setup.
Next week we'll share all of our special shopping hours, but you can get a head start by clicking the Special Hours link at the top of BalloonFiestaStuff.com.
Finally, one more reminder if you're coming to Balloon Fiesta. You can order online and select FREE In-Store Pickup. We'll hold your order for 30 days, so there's plenty of time to pick it up during Balloon Fiesta. Just remember that the Gift Shop is not located on the field, so watch for your "Ready for Pickup" email and make a note on your calendar to stop by. Last year, several customers forgot to pick up their orders and had to arrange shipping afterward—or chose to donate the merchandise back to Balloon Fiesta. We'd much rather see you wearing your new Balloon Fiesta gear while enjoying the launches and glows!
As always, thanks for your support of Balloon Fiesta and Balloon Fiesta Stuff.