Summer events don’t get much better than the return of the Elephant Butte Balloon Regatta, August 21-23, 2026. One of the country’s most unique balloon adventures, the annual EBBR at Elephant Butte Lake State Park is a family-friendly event and a great opportunity to get out and enjoy the natural beauty of our area. Over 25 balloons are expected to take flight from Lions Beach. Mass ascension starts at 7:30 a.m. all three days, weather permitting, along with tethered rides on Saturday and Sunday. Tethered ride tickets must be purchased the day of the event on Lion’s Beach. This year will not feature a balloon glow.
About the Elephant Butte Balloon Regatta
Though EBBR got its official start in 1980 as a Mother’s Day event, the rally itself traces its history back to the 1970s, when balloonists regularly made the trek to Elephant Butte for either Mother’s Day or Easter weekend.
The timing of the rally was often dependent on the weather and when the spring season had arrived, for example when the lake season began.
In 1989, concern over the safety of the balloonists flying over the lake prompted the Coast Guard to provide chase boats for each balloon. This concern also prompted the formation of the EBBR as an organizational entity.
The rally is free to the public, though park fees remain in effect for special events at $5 per car and $50 per bus. For more information, visit the website.
Follow the EBBR on Facebook to stay up to date on day to day announcements.
Posted by LasCruces.com
