Dozens of new shapes will take to the skies this year, including a concrete mixer from Duke City Redi Mix.

The weight of a normal teardrop-shaped hot air balloon is 250 to 300 pounds. Special shape balloons like Smokey Bear tend to weigh more due to their size, extra air vents and appendages.

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – There’s a new special shape coming to Balloon Fiesta this year and it takes the love of a family dog to new heights.

Thousands will flock to Albuquerque to watch balloons take to sky. Here are some of the best spots to catch Balloon Fiesta magic without being on the actual field.