ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® Announces Special Shape Balloons Attending the 53rd Event

Eleven new balloons join beloved shapes like the Bees, Darth Vader and Tico the Sloth

Albuquerque, NM – The 53rd ExxonMobil Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta® will host the largest gathering of special shape balloons as a part of the world’s premier balloon event, October 4-12, 2025. This year’s event will include 100 special shape balloons; 11 of those shapes will make their first Balloon Fiesta appearance.

With twelve countries represented in this year’s event, three countries will be showcasing their new special shapes. Pilots from Brazil, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America will bring their new-shaped hot air balloons to the Albuquerque skies.

Special shape hot air balloons and the pilot’s home country, making their inaugural appearance at Balloon Fiesta, include:

In addition to these new balloons, many fan-favorite special shapes will return, including the Bees — Joey the Little Bee, Joelly, and Lilly Little Bee — along with Smokey Bear, Steggy, Darth Vader and Master Yoda Balloon.

Special shape hot air balloons and the pilot’s home country returning to Balloon Fiesta include:

“These balloons spark joy and capture the imagination unlike anything else in the world,” said Miranda Portillo, pilot coordinator. “From the moment they inflate, special shapes transform the park into a wonderland of creativity, drawing awe and wonder.”

Special shapes will take center stage during the Special Shape Rodeos on Oct. 9 and 10 at 7:00 a.m. and the Special Shape Glowdeo on Oct. 9 and 10 at 6:30 p.m. From flying farm animals and pirates to Dracula himself, this year’s lineup of special shapes promises to surprise, delight and thrill Balloon Fiesta guests.

Get an early look at this year’s special shapes by following Balloon Fiesta on Facebook and Twitter.