Registration is Open!
https://www.cognitoforms.com/AAAA23/_2026FriendsLoversPilotRegistration
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The Friends & Lovers Balloon Rally is a signature AAAA tradition celebrating pilots, crews, volunteers, and the ballooning community that makes this event possible. The weekend blends great flying with meaningful connection, recognition, and fun—both on and off the field.
Friday, February 13, 2026 — Pilot Party & Drop-In Registration
The Friends & Lovers weekend officially begins Friday evening with the Pilot Party & Drop-In Registration at Nexus Smokehouse, located at 1511 Broadway Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87102, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
This evening serves as both a social kickoff and an important operational check-in for pilots. Pilots will pick up gifts and passes for themselves and their crew, along with receiving location assignments for the weekend. If a pilot is unable to attend, a crew chief or crew member may attend as a designated delegate to collect materials on their behalf.
Sponsor flight coordination also begins Friday evening. Pilots will be paired with assigned locations, and sponsors will connect directly with their passengers within 48–72 hours following the event. Sponsors will also receive pilot contact information Friday evening to support coordination.
Saturday & Sunday, February 14–15, 2026 — Flying Events
Pilot Briefings
All pilot briefings will take place at the McDermott Athletic Center (MAC), located at 801 Loma Colorado Blvd, Rio Rancho, NM 87124.
Doors open at 5:45 a.m., with the pilot briefing beginning promptly at 6:30 a.m. Briefings will be presented by Kristelle Siarza Moon and Ian Whitling and include a public address by the 2026 Balloonmeistern, along with weather updates, safety notes, launch site details, and reminders about special events and evening activities. At 7:00 a.m., all pilots will be released to their respective launch locations.
Propane Information
Propane distribution is scheduled for Saturday at Ortega’s, located at 3914 2nd St NW, Albuquerque, NM 87107. Pilots may refuel at any time throughout the day, though refueling before attending evening festivities is strongly recommended.
Please note that Ortega’s is closed on Sunday. To accommodate pilot needs, the propane list will remain open through Tuesday, allowing pilots to refuel on Monday or Tuesday if needed. Ortega’s will remain available for fueling through Tuesday. Out-of-town pilots who require alternative arrangements are encouraged to connect with event organizers on Sunday morning.
Saturday, February 14, 2026 — Crew Party & Celebration
Saturday’s festivities continue with the Crew Party & Celebration at The Block Container Park, located at 7805 Enchanted Hills Blvd NE, Rio Rancho, NM 87144. The venue opens at 10:00 a.m., with the party running from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
This high-energy crew appreciation event features a silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, baggie decorating, and presentation of the Crew of the Year Awards. Hosted appetizers and drinks will be provided, with additional food and beverages available for purchase. Outside food and drinks are not permitted. No tickets are required for this event.
The silent auction closes promptly at 12:00 p.m.
Baggie Decorating Contest
Pilots and crews are invited to participate in the Friends & Lovers Baggie Decorating Contest, where creativity and theme-driven design take center stage. Safety is paramount—baggies must not be hazardous when dropped from a balloon.
All entries must reflect the Friends & Lovers theme and demonstrate love in both concept and execution. Bonus points will be awarded for the use of red or pink elements. Each baggie, including its tail and decorations, must weigh no more than 4 ounces. Tails must be 2–4 feet long and clearly display the Balloon Name, Pilot Name, and Crew Chief Name.
Two matching or complementary baggies are required: one for the pilot (for competition, pending flying events) and one for the crew competition. Baggies will be available for pickup prior to the Sunday morning pilot briefing.
The Balloonmeistern will judge entries based on appearance, creativity, and adherence to guidelines. Winners will be announced during the Sunday pilot briefing.