Hundreds of hot air balloons took to the skies on Saturday above the U.S. state of New Mexico at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta -- the world's largest hot air balloon festival.<br /><br />More than 600 balloons lifted off into the air at the same time at the opening ceremony on Saturday.<br /><br />Hot air balloon teams from more than 20 countries made it to the nine-day event after going through a strict selection process from more than 1,000 applicants. Due to safety concerns, only those with a certain amount of flight hours and experience are allowed to take part in the festival.
