On our second morning of the Balloon Fiesta, they had a bit more success.

But first, coffee — rather gross, yesterday’s was better:

Vendors:

One staple of the fiesta is Dawn Patrol, where a few balloons inflate and launch before it gets light, to help check the wind conditions:

Once it gets a little light, another balloon with a flag attached is inflated and launched, during singing of the national anthem:

Then a bunch more balloons prepare to launch:

We brought a compact stool, which was handy when we got tired of standing:

This blimp-shaped hot air balloon actually has a propeller, so it can move around under its own power (instead of just up and down with the whims of the wind):

A balloon landing:

Mounted police: