Albuquerque, N.M. – The night sky over the Balloon Fiesta was lit by a whimsical cow‑head balloon named “Milkyway,” a heartfelt tribute to the late father of pilot Bill Kinser. The special‑shaped balloon, designed by Kinser’s wife, made its fifth appearance at the annual event, underscoring a family tradition that spans three generations.
Family legacy takes flight
Kinser, a native of Oklahoma, first fell in love with ballooning alongside his father, who was also a pilot. “My dad passed away when I was young. He was killed in a car wreck, and so it was kind of always my dream to follow dad’s dream, too,” Kinser said during the glow event. He recalled childhood memories of perched in the basket, watching the world below like “little Matchbox cars.”
After college, an uncle gifted Kinser his own balloon, and the family’s involvement in the sport deepened. Today, Kinser’s son Will flies alongside his father, and Will’s two‑year‑old son watches with wide‑eyed enthusiasm, already expressing a desire to pilot a balloon himself.
Milkyway’s design and debut
The cow‑head shape was conceived by Kinser’s wife, turning a simple tribute into a crowd‑pleasing spectacle. The balloon glowed brightly during Thursday’s Special Shapes Glowdeo, a nighttime showcase that featured more than a hundred uniquely shaped balloons. Thirteen new special‑shaped balloons debuted this year, bringing the total to 117.
“You can see it’s a family affair. This is our family,” Kinster said, noting that relatives from in‑laws to cousins helped prepare Milkyway for the glow. The event highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines many Albuquerque traditions.
Community impact
The Balloon Fiesta draws visitors from across the Southwest, boosting local businesses and reinforcing Albuquerque’s reputation as a hub for aviation enthusiasts. While the Fiesta is a national attraction, stories like Kinser’s remind attendees that the event also celebrates personal histories and community bonds.
Will Kinser reflected on his grandfather, Pat, who is no longer alive: “My grandpa, Pat, how I wish he was here, but I know he’s looking at us and I hope he’s proud.” The sentiment resonated with many onlookers who saw the glowing cow‑head as a symbol of perseverance and familial love.
Looking ahead
As the Fiesta continues, Kinser’s family plans to keep the Milkyway balloon in the lineup for years to come, hoping to inspire future generations of balloonists. “My son’s two. I think if he could, he’d fly a balloon right now,” Kinser said, smiling at his toddler’s fascination.
The Balloon Fiesta remains a cornerstone of Albuquerque’s cultural calendar, offering a blend of spectacle, heritage, and community spirit that aligns with the city’s enduring love of the skies.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
