July 18, 2026
RATON, N.M. — Raton MainStreet is proud to announce that the annual International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally has been selected as an official Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) awardee of the Tourism Event Growth & Sustainability (TEGS) grant, administered by the New Mexico Tourism Department (NMTD).
Raton MainStreet applied for the competitive state grant on behalf of the community to support the long-term growth, regional marketing, and sustainability of Raton’s signature Fourth of July weekend aviation event.
“Receiving the FY27 TEGS grant from the New Mexico Tourism Department is a major win for Raton and northeastern New Mexico,” said Executive Director Patricia Duran. “The International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally brings visitors from across the region to experience our historic community, support our local small businesses, and celebrate along the Santa Fe Trail. These funds will allow us to expand our promotional reach and elevate the experience for both pilots and spectators in 2027.”
Held annually around the Independence Day holiday at La Mesa Airfield in Raton, the International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally showcases colorful mass ascensions against the backdrop of the Sangre de Cristo foothills and historic Santa Fe Trail. The free, family-friendly event pairs seamlessly with Raton’s Fourth of July festivities on Historic First Street, drawing overnight visitors and generating vital economic impact for local lodging, dining, and retail establishments.
The New Mexico Tourism Department’s TEGS program is designed to assist communities and event organizers in developing, growing, and sustaining tourism-driving events across the state. By investing in strategic marketing, sponsorship development, and operational enhancements, the program helps local events attract out-of-area travelers and strengthen New Mexico’s tourism economy.
Planning is already underway for the July 2027 International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally. Additional details regarding pilot registration, event schedules, and sponsorship opportunities will be announced in the coming months at RatonMainStreet.org and ExploreRaton.com.
About Raton MainStreet
Raton MainStreet is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the economic revitalization, historic preservation, and community vibrancy of downtown Raton, New Mexico. Through business support, placemaking initiatives, and signature community events like the International Santa Fe Trail Balloon Rally, Raton MainStreet works to foster a thriving destination for residents and visitors alike.
About the New Mexico Tourism Department
The New Mexico Tourism Department works to showcase New Mexico as a premier travel destination and strengthen the state’s economy through strategic marketing, destination development, and community grant programs, including the Tourism Event Growth & Sustainability (TEGS) program.
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