Each October, the skies above Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta fill with color as hundreds of hot air balloons rise over Albuquerque. As the largest hot air balloon festival in the world, the event draws more than 500 balloons and hundreds of thousands of visitors during its nine day celebration. For many, it is a bucket list experience.
For wheelchair users, however, navigating Balloon Fiesta Park can be challenging. Large crowds, soft ground, long distances, and uneven surfaces can limit how much of the event someone can comfortably enjoy.
That is where GO Unlimited steps in.
This year, we assisted wheelchair using visitors in experiencing the Balloon Fiesta in its entirety by deploying adaptive mobility equipment designed for outdoor terrain. Our team utilized FreeWheel wheelchair attachments, which lift the small front casters of a wheelchair to create a single large front wheel for improved stability and rolling efficiency. We also utilized adaptive handcycles, giving participants the ability to independently travel longer distances across the festival grounds.
The result was nothing short of magical.
Participants were able to move through the launch field, attend morning ascensions, explore vendor areas, and stay through evening glow events without being limited by terrain. Instead of worrying about getting stuck in gravel or grass, they were able to focus on the beauty of mass ascensions, special shape balloons, and the shared excitement that makes this event so iconic.
Accessibility is about more than compliance. It is about participation. By combining adaptive equipment with hands on support, GO Unlimited helps ensure that world class events like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta are truly for everyone.
Because everyone deserves to look up and feel that sense of wonder.
