Balloon Fiesta Numbers May Be Down In 2008

The largest hot air ballooning event in the world begins in Albuquerque in almost six weeks.

But this year, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta may not be as big as in years past.

After setting an attendance record last year with 850,000 visitors over the nine day Fiesta, the question for this year is how will the economy with high gas and food prices affect attendance this year?

"It puts New Mexico and Albuquerque on the top of all the best lists and it brings people from everywhere in the world here," said Kathie Leyendecker with the Balloon Fiesta. "And they almost always come back."

But it appears not everyone is coming back for the 2008 event.

Only six weeks out, 650 balloonists have registered, down from last year.

Leyendecker said, "It could partially be some of the economy, it could be that maybe some pilots had weddings or other events or things that happen in your life that prevent you from coming."

Back in 2000, the Fiesta hosted more than 1,000 balloons.

Then in 2002, the Fiesta began limiting the number of balloons to 700.

This year, it doesn't look like it will reach that number.

But how will the economy affect how many locals go to the Fiesta as spectators?

David Kuyper from Albuquerque said, "Gas is up and food is up, everything is up."

Still, those we spoke to said they believe New Mexicans will find the money to go.

"It's not that expensive to do and I don't think it's going to take that much to get there and enjoy yourself," said Christopher Hickman from Albuquerque.

Steven Lucero, also from Albuquerque, said, "People here love the Balloon Fiesta as it is so they'll put their money toward that."

"I don't think it will have an effect at all," said Michelle Hall from Albuquerque. "I think it will go off just beautifully like it usually does."

Some other signs the Fiesta will still be a success despite the slumping economy: eight new special shape balloons have registered, more than 40 new pilots registered and the RV parks are already sold out for the two weekends of the Fiesta.

The Balloon Fiesta is a big money maker for the city of Albuquerque.

A study done after the 2006 event showed the Fiesta had a direct impact on the city of more than $119 million including hotel stays, restaurant visits, gasoline, taxes and more.