This week on What's Up Wednesday, September is here, and so is the latest Pin of the Month. We're also releasing the Heritage Pin and the 2026 Official Program, and we have a few important updates and reminders to share.
It's the next-to-last Pin of the Month in our 2025–2026 series. This month's design features the iconic Montgolfier balloon. It's especially fitting because September 19, marks the anniversary of the first unmanned hot air balloon flight in 1783. You've probably heard the story of the Montgolfier brothers sending a rooster, a duck, and a lamb into the sky. It would be another two months before humans took flight for the very first time.
The final pin in this series—yes, a brand-new series begins in November—will actually be released later this month. The October Pin of the Month will be available on September 30. We'll tell you all about it in that week's What's Up Wednesday and, of course, our on-field Merchandise Tent opens the very next day.
Another special pin available today is the Heritage Pin. Established in 2005, this annual award honors pioneers and others who have helped preserve and advance the legacy of Balloon Fiesta®. This year's honoree is the late Frank Mezzancello. During his service on the Balloon Fiesta Board of Directors, including as President, Frank was instrumental in creating a pilot hospitality area and securing the land that became our current launch field. You can read more about Frank and his many contributions on our website and in this year's Official Program.
Speaking of the Official Program, the 2026 edition is now available. It's your guide to every balloon attending this year's Balloon Fiesta® and the pilots who will be flying them. If you enjoy the feature articles, you'll find stories about how to become a balloon pilot, the history of American aeronauts, what founder Sid Cutter was like as a grandpa, and a look back at the nearly forgotten Balloon Fiesta Parades. And with Balloon Fiesta Live! celebrating its 10th year of live streaming, you'll also find a special article reflecting on that journey.
New merchandise continues to arrive almost daily, so be sure to check out the New Arrivals category on our website. We simply don't have room to feature every new item in What's Up Wednesday.
Finally, a reminder that this Friday is the last day to receive the discount on purchases of four or more General Admission tickets at the Gift Shop. Monday is also the final day to order online four-packs. After that, we'll no longer be able to guarantee enough time to mail them before Balloon Fiesta begins. If you've been planning to purchase your tickets, this is the week to take advantage of the savings.
Thanks for your support of Balloon Fiesta and Balloon Fiesta Stuff.