Ever had the chance to put your head in the clouds? Explore Raton, and you'll have the opportunity to cross that off your bucket list.

Our mountain town is reeling with anticipation for the 2023 tourism season, and Raton is the Southwest's best kept secret. Located against a Rocky Mountain backdrop, we are the next premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2023 International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally will be held from Friday to Monday, July 1-3 at La Mesa Airfield on York Canyon Rd, Highway 555, a half-mile west of Raton’s southernmost off ramp from I-25, Exit 450.

Our balloon rally gives attendees an up close and personal experience due to small crowds and friendly pilots. This event is one your whole family is sure to enjoy!

Wake up early in the morning to watch the balloon ascension with a daily pancake breakfast by our Elks Club. The whole town comes out to watch the balloons and enjoy our local festivities in town.

During the day, dance, eat and drink with local vendors and talent, and in the evening, pack the whole family up and park your pickup with blankets and snacks to watch the firework display in beautiful downtown Raton on Historic First Street.

Here's your chance to enjoy fresh mountain air and a carefree and wonderful weekend filled with colorful hot air balloons, delicious food, and celebration.

For the lowest hotel rates, book your rooms on ExploreRaton.com

Disconnect to reconnect again! Raton is your pass to hot air balloon rides!

THE EVENT SCHEDULE

Friday, June 30

WELCOME PILOT’S RECEPTION

Elks Lodge - 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Pilots, Families, Crews and Sponsors

Dinner provided by Elks Lodge #865

Pilot-Sponsor bags will be distributed

Saturday, July 1

La Mesa Airfield

6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Raton Elks Lodge Pancake Breakfast

6:00 a.m. Live Radio Remote Broadcast

6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Music provided by DJ Ted Romero

6:30 a.m. Pilots Briefing/Ascension

Sponsors Fly Day

Sunday - July 2nd

6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Raton Elks Lodge Pancake Breakfast

6:00 a.m. Live Radio Remote Broadcast

6:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Music provided by DJ Ted Romero

6:30 a.m. Pilots Briefing/Ascension

Sponsors Fly Day

Monday - July 3rd

6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Raton Elks Lodge Pancake Breakfast

6:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Music Provided by DJ Ted Romero

6:30 a.m. Pilots Briefing/Ascension

7:00 a.m. Pilot’s Fly Competition - Crew Fly Day

9:30 a.m. Closing Ceremonies

Parade & Festivities of the 4th of July

Enjoy Music, Fun & Vendors on Historic 1st Street

12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Historic First Street Downtown Raton (DJ Music, Games, Vendors)

1:30 p.m. Parade on Historic First Street

Dusk - Fireworks display by Raton Fire Department

Brought to you be the Raton Mainstreet Organization