March 3, 2025—Albuquerque, NM—The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center (IPCC) is excited to announce a refreshed version of its hot air balloon, “Eyahne On The Horizon.” The original balloon, which was introduced in 2020 and was seen at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta for the first time in 2021 and flew over the skies of Albuquerque daily, will be retired due to the fading of the design after nearly 1000 flights.
Designed by IPCC staff, the balloon’s design symbolizes the culture and sacred beliefs of the Pueblo People of New Mexico. Each of the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico has its own distinct way of life, so the included design elements were chosen based on symbols and themes common throughout the Pueblos. They represent cultural concepts including corn, strength, progress, continuance, blessings, and connection with the earth, heavens, ancestors, and each other. The name of the balloon, Eyahne (ee-yuh-NEE), means “blessings” in Keres, one of the languages of the Pueblos.
“As ‘Ehayne’ soars across the skies, it symbolizes IPCC’s enduring spirit, pride, and our Pueblo communities unbroken connection to our land, traditions, and heritage,” incoming IPCC President and CEO Monique Fragua said. “We look forward to sharing this experience with the world, continuing to inspire and uplift all who see it take flight.”
“Eyahne On The Horizon” is a partnership with Rainbow Ryders, Inc., the Southwest’s premier hot air balloon company. When registering the aircraft with the FAA, Rainbow Ryders chose the N-Number “76NM” in reference to 1976, the year that IPCC opened.
“Rainbow Ryders is thrilled to continue our growing partnership with the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center,” Rainbow Ryders’ Director of Project and Pilot Management Amanda Rhea Warren said. “Since 2020, the Albuquerque community has embraced the sight of the stunning IPCC balloon soaring through the sky, and we’re incredibly grateful to keep this tradition alive with a brand-new balloon.”
The balloon was made in Ann Arbor, Michigan, by Cameron Balloons, the world’s largest balloon manufacturer. It is capable of lifting 6,000 pounds, or 12 passengers plus the pilot. Like its predecessor, it will be one of the largest ride balloons in New Mexico. It will fly 200-300 times per year in the Albuquerque, Rio Rancho, and Los Lunas areas. It will also be on display at local events and will be seen at the Balloon Fiesta this October.
The new “Eyahne On The Horizon” balloon will be officially unveiled at 7 a.m. on March 10 at the Towneplace Suites by Marriott, located on 12th Street across from the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. The unveiling will be open to the public, with an acknowledgment of the balloon's pilots and light refreshments. Rainbow Ryders will also be offering tethered rides in the new balloon to IPCC staff from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. For more information, please contact Marianne Billy.