Red Rock Balloon Rally December 4 To December 6

Above, balloons at the Red Rock Balloon Rally near Gallup. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

September is only days away and before we know it, it will be December soon.

This means that the Red Rock Balloon Rally will be coming in early December at Red Rock Park near Gallup, New Mexico.

The rally will be held December 4, 2026 to December 6, 2026.

Above, a campground is near the balloon launch area. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who are RVers, there is a campground right next to the balloon launch area. I have stayed there and it is a nice campground with water and electric hook-ups. There is also a dump station available. 

Top 10 Benefits of RVing In Winter

Above, Red Rock Park Campground in 2018. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The only times I camped in the motorhome in winter were when I first moved to New Mexico from California and lived in it while it was parked in my driveway until the movers brought my belongings (about 11 days later) and at Red Rock Park Campground near Gallup for the 2018 Red Rock Balloon Rally. It snowed overnight while I was there.

Admittedly, winter camping isn't my cup of tea, but there are some benefits for others who might enjoy it.

RV Travel posted about them in today's Newsletter.

It begins with:

Are you tired of the same old winter routine? Stuck indoors, battling the cold, and missing out on the beauty of the season? It might be time to consider a winter adventure in your RV. RVing in the winter can be an incredible experience filled with many benefits. From picturesque snowscapes to cozy campfires, there’s so much to love about braving the cold in an RV. Here are the top ten reasons why you should consider hitting the road during the winter months.

To read the full article, go here. 

43rd RED ROCK BALLOON RALLY

Above, the 2019 Red Rock Balloon Rally. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Red Rock Balloon Rally is just two weeks away at Red Rock Park near Gallup.

I've attended twice. The first time was six years ago, but an overnight snowstorm prevented the ascension of the balloons. I camped next to the ascension area. The next year, the balloons had their ascensions. It was nice and sunny out, but the outside temperature was in the 20s. I was warmly dressed, but the cold air played havoc on my digital camera.

Above, the ascension area in 2019. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

From the official website:

 December 6th-8th, 2024

Get ready for the 43rd Annual Red Rock Balloon Rally, happening December 6-8, 2024! What started as a passionate initiative by four enthusiasts to showcase the thrilling flying conditions amid the stunning red rock formations east of Gallup, New Mexico, has now evolved into one of the nation’s largest balloon events. Join us and experience the awe-inspiring sight of over 150 balloons taking to the skies!

The Red Rock Balloon Rally Association, established in 1981, has been a pillar of support for the Gallup community. Through collaborations with numerous non-profit organizations, the Association has contributed tens of thousands of dollars to fundraising efforts. Operated entirely by a dedicated volunteer committee without any paid staff, the Association’s commitment to community service is truly remarkable.

Interested in being on a crew? Sign up here!

ADMISSION IS FREE TO ALL EVENTS!

(with only a small $10.00 parking fee at events at Red Rock Park)

To read more, go here. 

RVs and Hot-Air Balloon Festivals

Above, the Red Rock Balloon Rally near Gallup, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

For those who like to travel in their RVs and experience different events, RV Life has posted an article on hot-air balloon festivals that people can attend with their recreational vehicles.

In New Mexico, the two most prominent ones are the Albuquerque International Balloon Festival and the Red Rock Balloon Rally (near Gallup). I have attended the Red Rock Balloon Rally twice as it is only ten miles away (as the crow flies) from home. The ascension area is right next to a campground with hook-ups.

There are others that merit a visit and RV Life has listed the 10 most amazing ones.

They begin with:

At this point, our family has visited a lot of places and attended a lot of events. One of our favorite things we’ve ever visited as full-time RVers? The Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! This event is absolutely magical and we will never forget the feeling of waking up to hot-air balloons flying directly overhead during this most amazing of hot-air balloon festivals.

We loved this experience so much that I have started making a list of balloon festivals to attend around the country. Here are my top picks as of right now. They are listed in chronological order through the next calendar year, so plan your ultimate balloon festival trip with RV Trip Wizard today! 

To read more, go here. 

Are New Mexico Balloons Endangered By Joe Biden?

Above, are these balloons at the Red Rock Balloon Rally in danger from Joe Biden? Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Earlier today, a friend asked me when the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta will be taking place this year. I didn't know, but I did mention that the Gallup Red Rock Balloon Rally ascension will be taking place in December. 

He strongly hinted that given recent balloon shoot-downs by His Fraudulency, it might be a good idea to keep the balloons grounded.

That was before I saw the following on Piñon Post:

On Friday, Tucker Carlson, host of Fox News’ Tucker Carlson Tonight, pondered what a “helpful” balloon is after Kamala Harris recently said in an interview that the Chinese spy balloon was “not helpful.”

 “Surely and certainly, that balloon was not helpful, which is why we shot it down,” Harris said in an interview with NBC News.

Carlson said in his monologue, “A new policy has been announced by Kamala Harris, and that is that all ‘non-helpful’ balloons will be shot down.”

“Now, unfortunately, hot air balloon season is starting soon in Albuquerque and around the country. Are they going to be shot down? Are they helpful balloons or non-helpful balloons ‘in terms of’ shooting them down?”  

He added, “Balloonists across America need some clarification on that.” 

That would also include the Gallup balloonists as well. Since Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham is a friend and ally of Biden, maybe she should intercede with him.

To read more and view Carlson's monologue, go here.

Saturday Night Dinner At The El Rancho Hotel

Above, the El Rancho Hotel lobby last night. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Last night, Mitch Geriminsky and I headed to the El Rancho Hotel in Gallup for dinner. 

It was raining out as we drove into Gallup. It must've been a warmer storm as the temperature was around 43°, too warm for snow.

Above, in the El Rancho Hotel dining room under the watchful eye of John Wayne. 

For the first time, I decided to get a John Wayne Burger, which was a half pound of Angus beef with guacamole, lettuce, tomato and onion. It was quite good with a char broiled taste. Normally, I get chile rellenos there, but a I was still a little bit full from breakfast. Mitch had the W. C. Fields Burger. It was basically the same burger except it had chopped green chile peppers instead of guacamole.

The restaurant was almost full when we arrived. I was told it was busier the night before. Opening a bigger dining room last summer is paying off.

Above, the John Wayne Burger. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The hotel lobby was full of people, many of them connected to the Red Rock Balloon Rally. Speaking of which, it was too rainy and windy for any ascensions, I was told. Better luck next year. 

The lobby had its Christmas tree and decorations up.

Mitch headed back to Lake Havasu this morning around 5:00. 

Drive To Joe Milo's Trading Post

Above, the front of Joe Milo's Trading Post. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday, Mitch Geriminsky and I headed out to Red Rock Park near Gallup to view the Red Rock Balloon Rally ascension that was supposed to take place at 7:30. 

We got there about 7:40 but there were no balloons in the launching field. The only balloons there were packed away at various campsites at the campground next to the field. A number of people were wandering, and wondering, why no balloons were being launched.

Above, Joe Milo's White Water Trading Co. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We decided to head into Gallup to have breakfast at the Cracker Barrel.

After breakfast, we went to different Gallup trading posts to do some browsing. We eventually ended up going 16 or so miles south of town towards the Zuni Pueblo. I had never been in that area, so it was interesting for me to see what's down there. 

Above, Joe Milo's is ready for Christmas. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We stopped at Joe Milo's White Water Trading Co. in Vanderwagen, New Mexico. Next to the Hubbell trading post in Ganado, Arizona, Joe Milo's has the most interesting collections of merchandise, including raw turquoise, silver, guns, ammo, art and goods to make jewelry. I ended up buying a dream catcher. I got lucky as it was 50% off the regular price. I've seen Joe Milo's billboards in and around Gallup, but I have never been there until now.

Above, Joe Milo's Trading Co. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Along the road to Joe Milo's, were many ranches of various sizes. It turned out to be a nice area for a drive.

This Weekend's Company

En route back home from Colorado after he helped a friend move there, my friend Mitch has stopped in for a couple of days to visit.

We will likely head to Red Rock Park this morning to see ascension of the hot-air balloons at the Red Rock Balloon Rally. 

Last evening, we had dinner at Genaro's Mexican Restaurant in Gallup.

Above, last evening at Genaro's Mexican Restaurant.

Balloominaria This Saturday Evening

As part of the Red Rock Balloon Rally, this year's Balloominaria will be taking place this Saturday evening at Rio West Mall in Gallup  It begins at 6:00.

This is the event where hot-air balloons are inflated and their envelopes are lit up. Spectators are allowed to wander around the inflated balloons. I went to it last year and it was well-attended. 

Above, last year's Balloominaria at Rio West Mall. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

41st Red Rock Balloon Rally This Weekend

Above, the 2019 Red Rock Balloon Rally at Red Rock Park. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The 41st Annual Red Rock Balloon Rally will be taking place this weekend at Red Rock Park east of Gallup this weekend.

The balloon rally begins on Saturday, December 2 at 7:30 am with the ascension of hot-air balloons and ends on Monday, December 4.

From the official website:

December 2nd-4th, 2022

The 41st Annual Red Rock Balloon Rally will take place on December 2-4, 2022.  What began as a small but earnest effort by four individuals to share the unique flying challenge offered in the incredible red rock formations east of Gallup, New Mexico has grown into the second largest balloon rally in North America, with 200 balloons.

ADMISSION IS FREE TO ALL EVENTS!

(with only a small $5.00 parking fee at events at Red Rock Park)

Above, the 2019 Red Rock Balloon Rally. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I attended the 2019 Red Rock Balloon Rally and had a great time. The weather looks favorable this year with a forecast high of 54° on Friday.

2021 In Review

Above, the bull-riding event at the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial Rodeo. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

2021 is nearly over and it's time to do my usuall year in review.

First off, I am grateful that no family members or close friends have passed away. There was one loss that is almost like losing a friend. For nearly 40 years, I've started my days by turning on the radio to listen to Rush Limbaugh. His passing back in February was like a life-changer as my routine for the day has been altered. He is still missed. There was a big void this holiday season without his Christmas shows.

The First Quarter

Above, on the balcony of Southfork's ranch house. 

The first quarter of the year started as it normally does. Except, I decided I wanted to see the new John Wayne: An American Experience exhibit in Fort Worth, Texas that opened in December 2020. Mitch Geriminsky joined me on the trip to Texas that included the Wayne exhibit, the 6th Floor Museum At Dealey Plaza, Southfork Ranch (the filming location for the prime-time soap, Dallas) and the Fort Worth Stockyards. 

Above, yours truly at John Wayne: An American Experience. Photo by Mitch Geriminsky.

We had a great time as we rented a car and roamed around the Dallas/Fort Worth area. I'd like to go back during the summer months.

Also in January, I went to the wedding of Mitch and Holly Geriminsky in Las Vegas. We had a good time there and had a great barbecue dinner at the reception. 

The next big trip of the quarter was the Lost Dutchman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus Spring Clampout in March in Quartzsite, Arizona. I was joined there by Glenn Thornhill and Gary Julian from California. I hadn't seen either since I moved to New Mexico. We had somewhere around 200 Clampers attend. We had a great time.

Above, with Glenn Thornhill and Gary Julian at the Lost Dutchman spring clampout.

The Second Quarter

Above, the Durango train about to depart from Durango Station. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since New Mexico theaters were shut down due to the pandemic, I headed up to Durango, Colorado (a 3-hour drive) to see Godzilla vs. Kong in April. I made the trip a little mini-vacation and stayed at the Apen Rose RV Park in Durango. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad passes the campground across the highway. I had a relaxing good time in Durango, along with good food. I picked up another bottle of rum from Honeyville while in Durango. Good stuff!

I didn't ride the train this trip, but I did tour the train museum at the roundhouse of the Durango train station. Nice collection!

As it turned out, New Mexico theaters were allowed to re-open the following week.

The Third Quarter

Above, at Bella's Cappuchino and Cafe in Wells, Nevada.

In July, the Wild West Days Rodeo in Grants was held. It was nice to attend a rodeo again. It was the only rodeo held last year. 

Also in July, I took a little trip to Chaco Canyon and camped there. It was an interesting place to view up close ancient pueblo Indian dwellings. The drive in was an adventure itself. It is accessible only a rough dirt road for about 20 miles. The Beast handled it fine. 

Above, cliff dwellings at Chaco Canyon. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

In late July, Mitch Geriminsky and I flew to Twin Falls, Idaho to attend the Wells (Nevada) Fun Run car rally and show. This was the event that I missed three years ago when I had my heart issue. This time I was able to enjoy the entire weekend and see friends. Our group joined Linda Wilson in scattering her husband Bill's ashes at the rally. He passed away the year before from leukemia. We had thunderstorms the whole weekend and that caused problems for us when we tried to return home. Flights were delayed or cancelled in Salt Lake City, where we were to catch our connecting flights. I ended up getting a hotel room near the airport and got a flight to Albuquerque the next morning. It was bizarre that thunderstorms were all over the Southwest that weekend. Needless to say, we had a great time at the Wells Fun Run.

In August, I attended the Bloomer Trailers Best of the Best Rodeo and the Gallup Inter-Tribal Indian Ceremonial and Rodeo in August. Both events were held at Red Rock Park Rodeo Arena. The Indian Ceremonial was smaller than in years past, but I had fun there anyway. 

The Fourth Quarter

Above, at the Southern New Mexico State Fair in Las Cruces.

In October, I took a drive down to Las Cruces to attend the Southern New Mexico State Fair. It was a nice fair and it included a rodeo. It seemed like half the city was there during the rodeo.I camped at the KOA Kampground a few miles away from the fair. Along with the rodeo, I enjoyed viewing the livestock and exhibits. I may go back again next year.

Above, at the fall clampout with Harold, one our cook crew leaders. 

Also in October, the Lost Dutchman Chapter of E Clampus Vitus returned to Quartzsite for the fall Clampout. Again we all had a great time. Our chapter's "ambassador" Bill Greene, passed away during the summer at age 92 and a ceremony was held honoring him. 

Following the Clampout, I headed to Mitch's in Lake Havasu and saw Dwight Kuntz, a friend during our junior high and high school years. I hadn't seen Dwight since the 1980s at Dodger Stadium. We had a good time catching up.

Above, yours truly, Dwight Kuntz and Mitch Geriminsky at Lake Havasu. Photo by Holly Geriminsky.

In November, I went back to Lake Havasu, Arizona to celebrate Thanksgiving with Mitch and Holly Geriminsky at their new home. I camped at Crazy Horse Campgrounds at the lake. 

Earlier this month, I attended the Balloominaria at Rio West Mall in Gallup. It was part of the Red Rock Balloon Rally held at Red Rock Park. Balloominaria is where balloonists inflate their hot-air balloons in the mall's parking lot and illuminate them at night. Thousands showed up for this event despite the cold temperature.

Above, Ballominaria at Rio West Mall in Gallup. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Christmas dinner was hosted by Greg and Marlo Lucier at their home here in Jamestown. Since I had spent around $1,100 in car repairs and the high price of gasoline, I decided to stay home this Christmas. 

All in all, it wasn't too bad a year for me. Hopefully, 2022 will be a better one. 

Balloominaria 2021

Above, the crowds enjoying Balloominaria in Gallup. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Part of the weekend's festivities around the Red Rock Balloon Rally in and around Gallup, New Mexico included a Christmas parade and the Balloominaria at the Rio West Mall. 

I didn't go to the Christmas parade, but I did go to the Balloominaria. This is where people in the community has a chance to get up close to the balloons involved in the Red Rock Balloon Rally.

I missed the one in 2019 (this was when I first heard about it) and last year's events were cancelled due to the pandemic.

It got cold outside pretty fast once the sun went down. I normally shun wearing a mask, but it actually came in handy to keep my face warm. Being near the hot air balloon burners also helped to warm me up.

I got to the site of the Balloominaria early, about an hour before its start time, and wandered around watching the various balloon crews get their balloons inflated. At that time, there weren't too many people there.

Once the event started, crowds started coming in and it got pretty crowded. One guy had his balloon basket with burners available for people to have their picture taken in the basket as he fired up the burners. A lady with another crew invited me to take photos of the inside of their balloon with the burners going.

All in all, it was a fun event with well-behaved crowds. I am looking forward to next year's Balloominaria.

Here's some photos from last night:

Balloominaria This Evening

Above, two early arrival balloonist groups. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

This evening, I headed over to the Rio West Mall in Gallup to view the hot air balloon Balloominaria. It is part of the weekend's Red Rock Balloon Rally event.

There were roughly (my guess) 3,000 to 4,000 spectators at the mall's parking lot. A section of it was cordoned off for about 15 to 20 hot air balloons. It seemed like half the population of Gallup was there, but the city's population is only 21,605.

There were many from Arizona. Some were very rude by cutting off drivers in the parking lot and blocking the exit lanes so they can sit and watch the balloons. They made it hard to exit the mall property.  Other than that, it was an enjoyable evening. I left before the hordes started leaving and block the streets.

I took many photographs this evening and some will be posted tomorrow.

Red Rock Balloon Rally 2

This morning, more balloons were visible from my front yard of the hot-air balloons ascending from Red Rock Park ten miles west.

I will try to go there for tomorrow's ascension.

Red Rock Balloon Rally

Today is the start of the 40th Red Rock Balloon Rally at Red Rock Park and in Gallup, New Mexico.

So far, I've only seen two balloons. I slapped my zoom lens on my camera and took these photos.

There were taken from my front yard. The balloons are 10 miles west.

If more balloons are visible later, I'll take more pictres.

Before the balloons came visible, I took the following photos:

Above, the mesas. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, the neigbor's animal pen. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Above, the neighbor's livestock having breakfast. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

If I had a good working vehicle (The Beast is in the GOCO Beast Barn and winterized and the Mustang is in the shop and the Jeep hs no brakes.