1972 - First Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

 “From a small gathering of 13 balloons in 1972, the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta has grown to become the largest balloon event in the world.”

(Image caption: Hollis Engley. Balloons rising during mass ascension, Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, New Mexico. 1982.
Courtesy of Palace of the Governors Photo Archives, New Mexico History Museum, Santa Fe, New Mexico.)