After the off again, on again, and off 2021again uncertainty of 2020 and the unprecedented postponement of Balloon Fiesta, everybody was more than ready for the 49th Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta®. Some COVID precautions remained in place, notably mask wearing in tents and indoor spaces. Some large events, like the Music Fiesta, were put on hiatus for the year. Masks were optional in the open air on the fi eld, but recommended in crowds. The number of international balloonists attending dropped dramatically, since many countries still had travel restrictions in place. But people were thrilled to see the Balloon Fiesta return. Many guests thanked the balloon teams for being there, saying they’d really missed their sky full of balloons. With preparations for the 50th Balloon Fiesta well underway, everyone looked forward to a party to rival the KOB Birthday Bash of 1972 that started it all. OFFICIAL PROGRAM 257