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KOA Balloon Soars High at Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

As it continues to celebrate its 60th anniversary, Kampgrounds of America (KOA) debuts the KOA hot air balloon at the 50th Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

The specially commissioned KOA hot balloon makes its inaugural debut at the balloon festival in New Mexico, joining over 600 balloons representing 22 countries at the festival.

“It’s such an honor to bring our brand to Albuquerque,” Diane Eichler, vice president of marketing at Kampgrounds of America, Inc., said in a press release.

“There’s just something about seeing the iconic KOA yellow and familiar logo against a blue sky. Perhaps what is even more special is that one of our own helped us get there.”

Robb Nutting, the balloon’s pilot is also a KOA employee. He grew up ballooning with his parents and has been licensed to fly since 2003.

Photo courtesy of Kampgrounds of America

Serving as a business development consultant, Nutting travels the country helping the brand’s franchised campground owners be as successful as possible.

“I already work remotely helping KOA owners directly put in practice things that can help their business,” Nutting said. “Now I have the ability to combine work with balloon events. I’ve been ballooning all my life and still can’t stop myself from looking up when a balloon flies overhead.”

Moreover, the hot air balloon brings awareness to Care Camps, a non-profit that helps send children affected by cancer to special oncology summer camps.

Guests of honor from Camp Enchantment, a pediatric oncology camp serving families in New Mexico, will also be taking flights and experiencing the balloon up close.

“When we designed the balloon it was important that this wasn’t just a marketing message,” said Eichler. “Care Camps is near and dear to our hearts and sharing their story helps more kids experience the healing power of nature when they need it most.”

Launched for KOA’s 60th anniversary, the KOA balloon has attended balloon festivals throughout the United States. In 2023, Nutting plans to bring the balloon to more festivals and KOA campgrounds.

About Kampgrounds of America

Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA), currently celebrating its 60th year of operations, is the definitive leader in outdoor hospitality. United under the mission of “connecting people to the outdoors and each other,” the company consists of two unique brands: KOA and Terramor Outdoor Resorts.

KOA, the world’s largest system of privately owned, open to the public campgrounds, consists of more than franchised and owned campgrounds. With unrivaled brand visibility, KOA offers campground owners and operators unparalleled support in campground education, design, recruitment, marketing and technology.

Terramor Outdoor Resorts, a glamping venture, opened its first flagship property in Bar Harbor, Maine in 2020. Translated to “Love of Land,” the brand focuses on delivering a refined and upscale outdoor experience. For more information, visit KOA.com.

Featured image from Kampgrounds of America.

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TempoCycle-55
TempoCycle-55
February 25, 2024 10:44 pm

Isn’t it amazing how the KOA yellow balloon stole the show at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta? It’s not just a balloon. it’s a symbol of adventure and kindness. Seeing it soar high, supporting Care Camps and spreading joy, truly warms my heart. The magic it brings to the event and its message of nature’s healing power for children with cancer is simply inspiring.

bakerBea
bakerBea
March 20, 2024 9:34 pm
Reply to  TempoCycle-55

Watching the KOA balloon soar high was a mesmerizing sight at the event. It painted the sky with vibrant colors, stealing the show. A true symbol of joy and hope.

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Hi, you might find this article from Modern Campground interesting: KOA Balloon Soars High at Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta! This is the link: https://moderncampground.com/usa/new-mexico/koa-balloon-soars-high-at-albuquerque-international-balloon-fiesta/