Cherry on Top takes to Route 66 for its 2026 commemorative pin

The 2026 edition of the annual Cherry on Top pin celebrates the centennial of Route 66, pairing The University of New Mexico's official hot air balloon with a vibrant design inspired by the historic highway.

Available for purchase exclusively through the UNM Bookstores, the new pin continues a tradition that began with Cherry on Top's debut in 2023. Each year, UNM Communication and Marketing and the UNM Bookstores partner to bring a new commemorative design to Lobos and balloon enthusiasts.

"Cherry on Top represents a unique tradition that brings Lobos together with a shared sense of pride in our University and our home state," said Ethan Rule, director of university marketing. "There's nothing quite like seeing it fly in a balloon-filled sky each year. Balloon pins are a unique part of hot air balloon culture, and this collaboration captures the spirit of UNM while celebrating that connection to the iconic Route 66 which runs through the University campus."

This year's pin was designed by Mel Westfall, graphic design & multimedia project specialist with University Communication and Marketing, who drew inspiration from the iconic imagery of Route 66.

"It's so fun to watch the city light up (literally and metaphorically) with excitement about the centennial," Westfall said. "Walking along campus, there's so much neon and so many vintage Americana signs; it really does feel like you're on Route 66. I wanted to capture that in the pin design."

Since the tradition began, the annual pin has become a popular way for Lobos to celebrate the balloon and its connection to New Mexico. In the past three years, approximately 1,500 Cherry on Top pins have been sold through the UNM Bookstores.

"Cherry on Top represents a unique tradition that brings Lobos together with a shared sense of pride in our University and our home state."

- Ethan Rule, director, University Marketing

Cherry on Top first made its public debut on UNM's Johnson Field in October 2023 as part of a partnership between UNM and Rainbow Ryders. The balloon has since become a familiar sight in the skies over New Mexico and at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Through its ongoing partnership with University Communication and Marketing, the UNM Bookstores offer a selection of Cherry on Top merchandise. In addition to the annual pin, Lobos can find apparel, mugs and accessories featuring the balloon.

"The Cherry on Top tradition has been such an exciting collaboration, and we're delighted to offer merchandise that gives Lobos another way to celebrate this uniquely New Mexican part of the UNM experience," said Lisa Walden, director of the UNM Bookstores. "The annual pins have become cherished collectibles, so bringing Cherry on Top together with the Route 66 Centennial makes this year's design especially meaningful. We're excited to celebrate both during Balloon Fiesta and throughout the year."

Lobos will have another opportunity to celebrate Cherry on Top during Pack Week. On Friday, Oct. 23, the UNM Bookstores will partner with UNM Food for a special pop-up shop featuring Cherry on Top merchandise alongside a selection of spirit gear.

The 2026 Cherry on Top pin and other Cherry on Top merchandise are available at UNM Bookstores locations and online at bookstore.unm.edu.