Photo by Marty Mayfield
Ever been in a hot air balloon? Explore Raton, and you'll have the opportunity to cross that off your bucket list. We are excited to welcome visitors back into town after almost two years since our last 4th of July Weekend in 2019.
Our mountain town is reeling with anticipation for the 2021 tourism season, and Raton is the Southwest's best kept secret. Located against a Rocky Mountain backdrop, we are the next premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The 2021 International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally will be held on Fourth of July Weekend from Saturday to Monday, July 3-5 at La Mesa Airfield on York Canyon Rd, Highway 555, a half-mile west of Raton’s southernmost off ramp from I-25, Exit 450.
Our balloon rally gives attendees an up close and personal experience due to small crowds and friendly pilots. This event is one your whole family is sure to enjoy!
Wake up early in the morning to watch the balloon ascension with a daily pancake breakfast by our Elks Club. Our whole town comes out to watch the balloons and enjoy our local festivities in town.
During the day, dance, eat and drink with local vendors and talent, and in the evening, pack the whole family up and park your pickup with blankets and snacks to watch the firework display in beautiful downtown Raton on Historic First Street.
Here's your chance to enjoy fresh mountain air and a carefree and wonderful weekend filled with colorful hot air balloons, delicious food, and celebration.
For the lowest hotel rates, book your rooms on ExploreRaton.com/Stay
Disconnect to reconnect again! Raton is your pass to hot air balloon rides!
THE EVENT SCHEDULE
Friday, July 2
WELCOME PILOT’S RECEPTION
Raton Convention Center - 6:00pm to 9:00pm
Pilots, Families, Crews and Sponsors
D. J. music
Dinner provided by (TBD)
Pilot-Sponsor bags will be distributed
Saturday, July 3
La Mesa Airfield
6:00am to 9:00am Raton Elks Lodge Pancake Breakfast
6:00am Live Radio Remote Broadcast
6:00am – 10:00 am Music provided by DJ
6:30am Pilots Briefing/Ascension
Dusk – Balloon Glow (We hope that weather permits and you please join in on the glow!)
Sunday - July 4
6:00am to 9:00am Raton Elks Lodge Pancake Breakfast
6:00am Live Radio Remote Broadcast
6:00 – 10:00 am Music provided by DJ
6:30am Pilots Briefing/Ascension
1:30 pm PARADE (Please join us in the Parade, line up BTU Parking Lot 1:00pm)
Enjoy Music, Fun & Vendors on Historic 1st Street
4th of July Fun on First Street
12:00pm – Historic First Street Downtown Raton
DJ Music, Games, Bands, Dancing, Vendors
Parade – 1:30pm on Historic First Street
Fireworks display by Raton Fire Det. At Dusk
IT’S GONNA BE FUN!
Monday - July 5
6:00 am to 9:00am Raton Elks Lodge Pancake Breakfast
6:00am to 10:00 am Music Provided by DJ
6:30am Pilots Briefing/Ascension
7:00am Pilot’s Fly Competition
9:30am Closing Ceremonies
Brought to you by: Raton Main Street Organization/ Balloon Rally Committee
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