Museum fires up Balloon Fiesta history

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - A new exhibit showcasing the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta from its beginning to now is opening at the Balloon Museum.

"This exhibit tells that story, and it also tells the story of why hot-air ballooning is so unique to New Mexico," said museum Manager Sandy Cohen.

The exhibit at the Anderson-Abruzzo International Balloon Museum opens to the public Saturday.

Cohen told KRQE News 13 the museum has always had bits and pieces of Fiesta memorabilia since it open seven years ago but nothing like this.

"I started here as the museum manager in July, and I thought that was a priority that we really should do something on this because that's what its known for," Cohen said.

They were able to get some good stuff.

From original posters and pins to original home movies dating back to the early 1970s.

"The earlier stuff was more difficult to collect, but I think having said that, that's the stuff that people are probably going to enjoy the most," said Cohen.

Some of the items were donated, others are on loan.

Cohen said while the exhibit itself will be up long-term in the museum, the displays and memorabilia within the exhibit will change over time.

"People will want to see new things, and then secondly a lot of the memorabilia can just not stay out for long periods of time because its just not good for the artifacts," Cohen said.

Cohen said they were able to get their hands on pretty much everything they were looking for for the exhibit and even got a few things they didn't know existed.