This week on What's Up Wednesday, tomorrow is a big day! Our brand-new on-field merchandise tent opens at 9 a.m., and we're celebrating with the early release of the final Pin of the Month in this series, new bags to carry all your Balloon Fiesta treasures, and a sneak peek at something special coming next week for pin collectors.
One year ago, we introduced the very first Pin of the Month in this year-long series. Today, we're releasing the final pin. The October design features the ever-popular Jack-o'-Lantern balloon alongside a friendly-but-spooky Fantasy Witch balloon, making it the perfect way to celebrate both the season and the conclusion of this collection. Pick yours up online or in person before they're gone.
If you missed any of the monthly releases, we have good news. We've saved a limited number of complete collections and assembled them into a collector's set. All 12 pins are beautifully mounted in the commemorative calendar display. The catch? They're available only in person—either at the Gift Shop or in our on-field merchandise tent—and there are only 50 sets available.
The next Pin of the Month series begins on November 4 with What's Up Wednesday #250, so there's plenty more collecting ahead!
Before we leave the topic of pins, here's one more teaser. The 2026 Mystery Pin Set is coming! After the success of last year's edition, we're bringing it back. We'll have all the details next week, but if you're a serious pin collector, mark your calendar for Thursday, October 8.
With all the Balloon Fiesta Stuff you're ordering, you may want to add a tote—or two. Our new Neon Tote perfectly matches this year's neon sportswear collection, while the Custom Canvas Tote features a colorful assortment of Balloon Fiesta logos in soft pastel shades. Looking for something a little lighter? Our new Sky Explorer Cinch Bag features a fun, whimsical design that pairs perfectly with the youth apparel we've highlighted over the past few weeks. Be sure to check out our complete collection to find the perfect carry-all for you and your family.
With Balloon Fiesta officially beginning Saturday morning, our merchandise team has been working hard to prepare—and we're ready! While our Gift Shop on Alameda has already begun extended hours, our brand-new on-field merchandise tent opens tomorrow morning at 9 a.m. To access the new shopping experience, enter Balloon Fiesta Park via Balloon Fiesta Parkway, either from southbound I-25 at Tramway or from northbound San Mateo Boulevard at Alameda. Follow the signs to the south end of the field—you won't miss the new tent. It's huge!
Since many of you ask where to find specific merchandise, here's a quick guide. We stock four locations: our online store, our year-round Gift Shop, the new on-field merchandise tent, and the specialty shop inside the Gondola Club. While most items are available in multiple locations, some products may sell out in one location before another, and it's not always possible to move inventory quickly during Balloon Fiesta. If you can't find a particular item in one location, be sure to check another. And remember, because nearly all of our merchandise is event-specific, once it's gone, it's gone.
One last reminder. If you selected FREE In-Store Pickup when placing your online order, please remember to stop by and pick it up during Balloon Fiesta. We hold pickup orders for 30 days, but after that they're considered a donation back to Balloon Fiesta. We'd much rather see you wearing your new Balloon Fiesta gear than leaving it behind!
In summary, online shopping continues 24/7, our Gift Shop is already open extended hours, and our brand-new on-field merchandise tent opens tomorrow.
Ready. Set. Shop!
As always, thanks for your support of Balloon Fiesta and Balloon Fiesta Stuff. And don't forget to forward this email to your fellow Balloon Fiesta fans!