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2024 Sponsor Opportunities

Baggie Decorating Rules

Friends and Lovers 2024

It’s time for Friends and Lovers 2024. First held in 1975, this rally has evolved into sharing the love with Friends, Lovers, and Crew Members. It’s a fun-filled weekend of Ballooning, friendship, and socializing. Check out the schedule below. Note, Friday evening’s registration party is NOT at the Sid Cutter Pavilion. All events on Saturday and Sunday ARE at Balloon Fiesta Park and the Sid. Update. Due to the anticipated lack of a waiver from the FAA, the board has decided to move the event to Rio Rancho. More specifics to come.
Official Flying Events competition, Crew-D competition, Special Events Crew activities, and a lot more await you. Pilots register today, the deadline is February 6.
And don’t forget to nominate your crew for Crew of the Year. They could win a special Ballooning Cornhole set at the Sunday morning Brunch.

Registration Details

Registered Pilots receive about $200 in gifts and incentives, which include:

• 2024 Official Friends and Lovers Long-sleeve T-Shirt
• 2024 Official Friends and Lovers Pin
• One ticket to the Sunday brunch (breakfast burrito bar, pancake bar, and biscuits & gravy)
• Curated Pilot Gift Made with Love
• Special Surprise for Your Crew
• Propane Funds
• Hugs

Remember you can also sponsor part of the event. Click the button at the top of the page.
If you have any questions or need more information, reach out to Kristelle Siarza Moon, our Special Events Chair.
special-events@hotairballooning.org

Baggie Competition Rules

Baggies will only be accepted during the Friday night Rock and Roll Rally Kick-Off Party on February 9, 2024, between 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM.
Baggies MUST NOT create a hazard when dropped from a balloon.
Baggies must include the theme “All You Need Is Love” (Inspired by The Beatles!)
Extra points for colors red or pink
must not weigh more than 4 oz. each.
Baggies must have a tail between 2 & 4 feet in length
Tail must include the following: Balloon Name, Pilot Name, Crew Chief Name
Baggies will be judged by our Balloonmeisterin, and the winner will be announced during the Awards Ceremony Brunch on Sunday, February 11.
Entries will be judged on appearance, creativity, and conformity
Baggies will be available for pick up before Pilot Briefing on Saturday morning
Two matching or complementary baggies: One for the Pilot to drop for competition and one for the crew to use for competition