LOS RANCHOS DE ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta expanded beyond its traditional park setting Monday night with a new community event: Globito Glow in the Village, also known as “Globiton.”
Held from 5:30 to 9:00 p.m. along a half-mile stretch of 4th Street in the Village of Los Ranchos, the glow featured 66 remote-controlled hot air balloons—called Globitos—illuminated in a static display. The location was chosen for its historical alignment with Route 66.
The event marked the 66th anniversary of the Village of Los Ranchos and previewed the upcoming 100-year anniversary of Route 66. Admission was free, but tickets sold out quickly as the Village reached capacity. Attendees were encouraged to carpool or use rideshare services due to limited parking.
Organizers described the glow as a way to extend the magic of the Balloon Fiesta into the community. A limited-edition commemorative pin was released to mark the occasion.
“Globiton” is the first official Balloon Fiesta event held outside Balloon Fiesta Park and is part of a broader effort to connect the celebration with neighborhoods across the Albuquerque area.
