By Sara Atencio-Gonzales, The Paper. – Bernalillo County and the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta are once again asking local landowners to help hot air balloon pilots find safe places to land during this year’s event.
The county and Balloon Fiesta announced the 2026 “X Marks the Spot” program, which allows property owners to signal that their land is available for balloon landings by placing a large white X on their property.
The program will take place during the 54th ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, scheduled for Oct. 3 through Oct. 11.
The white X serves as a visual signal for pilots looking for an accessible and safe place to land. Organizers said the program is especially important as continued development throughout the Albuquerque metro area has reduced the amount of open land available to balloon pilots.
“Balloon Fiesta depends on the support and hospitality of the community, especially the landowners who are willing to provide pilots with additional landing options,” Jennifer Garcia, director of operations and logistics and event director for the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, said in a press release.
Garcia explained that the program gives pilots an important visual tool while providing residents with another way to participate in the annual event.
Landowners who take part in the program will also have an opportunity to win daily prizes.
Balloon Fiesta pilots will carry cards to collect information from participating property owners after landing on land marked with a white X. At the end of each day’s flying events, Balloon Fiesta officials will select one participant as the “landowner of the day.” That person will receive a prize package.
About 200 white X markers are available for landowners at no cost while supplies last. Property owners do not need an official marker to participate and can make their own white X using white sheets or similar materials.
The free markers are available for pickup Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. at several locations throughout the Albuquerque area.
Pickup locations include the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta offices, Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Posse, North Domingo Baca Multigenerational Center, Village of Los Ranchos Administrative Office, Frontier Market in Corrales, Raymond G. Sanchez Community Center and Village of Corrales Hall.
The program is intended to strengthen cooperation between residents and balloon pilots by making it easier for pilots to identify properties where a landing is welcome.
The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta is held every October and draws balloonists and visitors from around the world. Organizers describe the event as the largest gathering of balloons and balloonists in the world.
The 2026 Balloon Fiesta begins Saturday, Oct. 3 and continues through Sunday, Oct. 11.