Great Reno Balloon Race
Rides w/ Balloon Nevada available for purchase annually.
When:
September 10 - 13
See schedule below.
Location:
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
1595 N Sierra St.
Reno, NV 89503
SCHEDULE
Thursday, September 10
3:30 a.m. – Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
5:00 a.m. – Super Glow Show
5:30 a.m. – Dawn Patrol
6:45 a.m. – National Anthem – Joss Higgins
7:00 a.m. – Mass Ascension Launch & Pilot Competition
8:00 a.m. – Tethering Activities
9:30 a.m. – E.L. Cord Foundation Tissue Paper Balloon Launch
4:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m – Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
Friday, September 11
3:30 a.m. – Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
5:00 a.m. – Super Glow Show
5:30 a.m. – Dawn Patrol
6:45 a.m. – National Anthem – Nick Sorrentino
7:00 a.m. – Mass Ascension Launch & Pilot Competition
8:00 a.m. – Tethering Activities
9:30 a.m. – E.L. Cord Foundation Tissue Paper Balloon Launch
4:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m – Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
Saturday, September 12
Paint The Park Pink – Wear Your Best Pink!
3:30 a.m. – Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
5:00 a.m. – Super Glow Show
5:30 a.m. – Dawn Patrol, presented by Swizzle
6:45 a.m. – National Anthem – Alana Ridge
7:00 a.m. – Mass Ascension Launch & Pilot Competition
8:00 a.m. – Tethering Activities
4:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.- Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
Sunday, September 13
3:30 a.m. – Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
5:00 a.m. – Super Glow Show
5:30 a.m. – Dawn Patrol
6:45 a.m. – National Anthem – Jessica Pauletto
7:00 a.m. – Mass Ascension Launch & Pilot Competition
8:00 a.m. – Tethering Activities
4:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.- Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
For generations, hot air balloons have captured imaginations, and in Reno, they take center stage every September at the Great Reno Balloon Race that occurs over a highly anticipated span of four days.
The Great Reno Balloon Race is undeniably one of Reno's most beloved annual events, attracting over 150,000 visitors from around the country. Many locals (myself included) make it a yearly tradition, no matter how big the crowds get. While the size of the event might feel overwhelming at first, a little planning goes a long way, helping you fully enjoy the magic of watching so many whimsy balloons lift into the morning sky.
Families have been coming to this event since its earliest days, carrying with them countless stories of priceless family traditions, challenges turned to triumph, unexpected encounters, and memories that keep the magic alive. And then there are the pilots, who fly with such pride and passion. You can see it in the way they light up when talking about their journey as a pilot, each time their balloon lifts off, in the smiles they bring to the crowd, and in the joy they clearly feel sharing this experience with all of us. That combination of community, tradition, and heart is truly the perfect recipe for creating memories that last a lifetime.
Did you know that most pilots typically bring around 1,500 trading cards to hand out during the event? I love watching people of all ages walk around the huge field, meeting the pilots and collecting cards as they go. It’s such a fun little tradition and a great way to connect with the people behind the balloons.
Interested in learning more about the pilot of the Phoenix and one of the youngest pilots in Reno?
Check out Chris's story HERE.
The fact that everyone can come together and experience this magic at no cost truly makes my heart soar and adds so much to my love for this city. If you're a skeptic and believe that nothing in life is ever free, think again. Reno is loaded with real human beings who work their butts off to create a little magic for everyone. It's something I've witnessed time and time again, and The Great Reno Balloon Races are just one of many examples.
What makes the event special:
A night scene brimming with wonder, excitement, anticipation.
Sharing in the excitement with plenty others, including tons of visitors from out of town and even from out of the country.
The Local Community
Watching children & adults' faces light up.
Organizations to interact with all along Balloon Blvd.
Magical Hot Air Balloon silhouettes against mountainous backdrops.
Friendly pilots dedicated to putting smiles on your faces.
Music & enthusiastic MCs to complement and uplift the mood/atmosphere.
A whimsical Balloon Boulevard filled with vendors, keepsakes, & activities .
Hot cocoa.
Delicious bites.
The perfect opportunity for creating memories that last a lifetime.
Family-friendly activities.
VIBES.
As the world's largest free ballooning event, held in The Biggest Little City, many attendees arrive while it’s still dark to witness the breathtaking Glow Show at 5 a.m. Here, a select few balloons light up the pre-dawn sky, sparkling in unison with music. Just 30 minutes later, these balloons launch into the sky as part of the Dawn Patrol. As the sun rises, families and friends gather in awe for the Mass Ascension, where all the balloons take flight, creating a spectacular display against Reno’s already impressive mountainous backdrop.
In 1982, its story started out with just 10 balloons, and today, you can expect to see around 100 balloons filling the sky with the most unbelievable landscape.
What makes this experience truly magical is the ability to walk right up to these majestic balloons and witness their splendor unfold before your eyes. I still vividly recall the awe I felt during my first visit to the event nine years ago. Watch as the skilled pilots and their dedicated crews work in harmony to prepare for takeoff, but please remember to be courteous and avoid direct contact with the balloons. The action moves quickly!
From a young age, I sensed there was something special about life. I’d often stare at endless roads during road trips, wondering how they were built and who dreamed them into existence. I’d spend hours mesmerized by sunsets and wonder how airplanes could sore through the sky & defy gravity.
These moments of wonder sparked a deeper appreciation for the incredible things humans have achieved. Behind every road, every bridge, and every balloon, there were people who dared to dream big, people who refused to accept the limits of what seemed possible.
Whether up close or from afar, hot air balloon magic is felt the same. I can't tell you how strong the urge was to abruptly pull over and have an "it's a bird... it's a plane... moment" when I first witnessed these beauties from the freeway heading east on highway 80. After all of these years of enjoying them, their magic remains as strong as ever.
I’ve been taking my three kiddos to this event since they were babies, and my love for it just grows with each passing year. Without a doubt, it’s one of the most special events to exist, and we’re lucky to experience it right here in Reno - completely free. I mean, hot air balloons were the first successful form of human flight, defying gravity and all odds. How cool is that!?
As the balloons shine in the sky, I can't help but be inspired and reminded of all of the beauty and joy that comes from chasing our dreams and letting our spirits soar. I truly hope you have the most magical time when you make it out!
This pilot welcomed so many kids, my little one included, into her basket and even let them help trigger the fire. It was an experience remember vividly to this day. I’m so grateful to her for sharing that wonder and creating such unforgettable memories for the kids. Picture taken in 2017. Boy does time fly.
***Purchases for parking, VIP Cloud 9 Club, and from vendors all contribute to keeping this event free for everyone.
Parking
There will be day-of general public parking available at Rancho San Rafael Park for a cash donation to the event – cash only. The lots are located on the corner of Sierra Street and McCarran Blvd., as well as on Coleman Street. These lots will get you a short walking distance away from the field. These paid parking lots will open at 3:30 a.m. each day.
General Parking Fees
Thursday $10
Friday $25
Saturday $25
Sunday $25
RV’s, buses and oversized vehicles are NOT allowed to park at Rancho San Rafael Park.
These are very limited in quantity and fill up almost instantly. By paying for general parking, you are keeping the event free to the community!
Disabled Parking is usually located in the Wilbur May Museum lot. Pull up to the event and workers will guide you to the the appropriate spaces. These spaces fill up fast just like the others inside the park.
VIP Parking (Tickets) (SOLD OUT for 2026) Friday $45 + $2.34 fee
Saturday $50 + $2.49 fee
Sunday $50 + $2.49 fee
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Free Rides of RTC RAPID South Virginia Line Sept. 10-13, 4am-10am daily. FREE, with service every 15 minutes. SCHEDULE
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UNR Parking
If you don’t mind walking a few blocks you can park for free at the University’s lots in the Green and Blue 1 lots on the northwest side of Mackay Stadium (enter from N Virginia St.) But remember that cars must be removed by 11 a.m. (Subject to changes if event falls on a Nevada football afternoon game).
Neighborhood Parking:
There are plenty of parking spaces in the nearby neighborhoods around the park, but these are mostly free for the early birds who make it to the park before 5am. If arriving a little later in the morning (say around 6-7am), you'll most likely run into traffic. If you see a line of cars heading a certain direction, go the other way and find parking elsewhere. Walking to the park with all of the balloon obsessed people is actually a lot of fun and makes any walk, no matter the distance, super fun and entertaining. Do you know how they say yawns are contagious? Well, I think the same can be said for excitement. Side note: If you find yourself getting a little flustered trying to find street parking in the nearby neighborhoods, I really think that parking at UNR makes for the most hassle free parking.
Thursday, Friday, Saturday, & Sunday (SOLD OUT)
- Heated indoor/patio outdoor seating on the field
- Phenomenal breakfast provided by Silver Legacy at THE ROW
- Hosted bar with champagne, bloody marys and mimosas provided by Squeeze In and J Resort Reno
- VIP Parking Pass with (optional) shuttle cart transportation from your car to the Cloud 9 VIP tent
*Cloud 9 tent will be open 4-9:30am. Food and beverage service will be from 4:30-8:30am each day of the event.
Free Tethered Rides
After Mass Ascension, there will be tethered balloon ride opportunities. This activity starts at approximately 8 a.m. Tethered rides are on a first-come, first-served basis.
TIP: Fall in line well in advance. Rides are limited and may be canceled at any moment if wind speeds pick up.
"A new face is taking to the skies at The Great Reno Balloon Race! This year, Humpty Dumpty will represent Renown Health, replacing our longtime balloon, Reaching for the Stars, which has officially retired.
Join us Sept. 10-13 and look for Humpty each morning, when we’ll offer free tethered rides for kids.
Fun fact: Humpty stands 70 feet tall, has flown in eight countries and 26 states — but this will be his first time flying in Reno!"
-Description from Instagram
Montie the Sheep will be providing free tethered rides for the public on Friday, 9/11 and Sunday, 9/13!
Thanks to the generous support of the Wilbur May Foundation, The Children’s Cabinet is able to provide tethered rides to children in two special shapes (Taz and Lulu the Leopard). These rides are not available to the general public.
FOOD + DRINK
I LOVE seeing our radest local businesses pop up at our events. They work so hard and represent Reno to the fullest. Check out The Compoud Coffee, Pink Sugar Coffee, and Short Tail Coffee for all of your caffeinated and non-caffeinated needs. Enjoying proper food and drink at the races is everything. High upon high upon high, LOL.
Doggy Style is a local favorite that hit the ground running when they first opened up shop back in September 2024. With their bold names, adventurous creations, and laid back vibes, you just can't help but love them. Gotta support people who know how to cook a good Korean Dog and have fun. When you get a chance to hit up their regular lunch menu, try out their most popular Glizzy McGuire, a dog fried in Hot Cheetos, latherd with nacho cheese, and topped with more Cheetos, house sauce, kimchi seasoning, and green onions.
Other Food Options
Sweet Crunch
Crepes & Croissants
Grinder Switch Events & Catering
Krispy Kreme
Raley's
A Brief History on Hot Air Balloons
Reel of how hot air balloons got started. 1783: The Montgolfier brothers set the skies ablaze with wonder as they launched the very first hot air balloon in France!
1783: Parisian adventurers Pilâtre de Rozier and François Laurent d'Arlandes became the first humans to float above the city in a magical airborne journey.
1794: Hot air balloons go to battle! The French Army uses them for the first-ever aerial reconnaissance during the Battle of Fleurus.
1804-1960s: The skies went a little quiet as interest shifted to other types of balloons, but hot air ballooning was far from forgotten.
1960: A new era dawns! Ed Yost reignites the ballooning spirit with the invention of the modern propane burner.
1963: The modern hot air balloon takes flight, with Ed Yost soaring over the plains of Nebraska, marking a new chapter in airborne adventure.
1978: The world’s most daring adventurers cross the Atlantic in the Double Eagle II, proving that hot air ballooning knows no bounds.
1999: The ultimate sky-high achievement! Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones circle the globe in a hot air balloon, making history in the clouds.
The Balloonist’s Prayer
The winds have welcomed you with softness.
The sun has blessed you with his warm hands.
You have flown so high and so well
that God joined you in laughter
and set you gently back into
the loving arms of Mother Earth.
Tips & Details
Parking close to the park is a breeze if you arrive early, between 3:30 a.m. and 5:30 a.m (inside parking - $25 cash, nearby neighborhood parking - free). Waking up that early is an adventure in itself, especially when you’re with loved ones. The balloons and the whole atmosphere make it totally worth it. But if early mornings aren’t your thing, no worries. You can still enjoy the event at a later time; just be prepared to park a bit farther away and walk. Check out RGBR's parking guide for more details.
Kid Zone: Every year, they mix up the entertainment for kids with fun activities like bungee jumps (usually $12/5 minutes), face paint ($), and crafts. They always do their best to make sure everyone is happy, so I have no doubt this year’s activities will be just as exciting. Last year, the National Automobile Museum brought in some classic cars for everyone to enjoy, including their Barbie & Ecto-1 Ghostbusters cars.
Merchandise: Balloon souvenir vendors will be on site, offering a range of keepsakes to commemorate your experience. Discover fresh new designs each year. Shop hoodies, t-shirts, kid's shirts, beanies, hats, posters, pins, and much more. All reasonably priced. If you're hoping to snag some clothes, make sure to visit earlier in the week (Thursday being the earliest) as popular sizes and styles tend to sell out fast.
What to Bring: Mornings can be chilly this time if year. Check hourly weather forecasts and dress accordingly. Layers are key. Lots of people like to bring blankets, lawn chairs (please be considerate to not obstruct the view of those sitting on the ground), and hot drinks to stay cozy. If you’re planning on attending with kids, it's helpful to pack some food, drinks, and snacks to help keep them happy. Food vendors available. Most take cards, but cash is always king, & some may experience problems with their systems. ATMs are always available on site. Expect lines.
Event Highlights: Mass ascension is undoubtedly magical, with 80-100 balloons taking to the skies, but don’t sleep on the Glow Show at 5 a.m. and Dawn Patrol at 5:30 a.m. These are my favorite parts of the event. And one of my favorite little moments is when the entire crowd turns on their phone lights and points them toward the sky to create a blanket of twinkling lights while cheering on the pilots. It makes the whole experience feel even more magical. How could I forget about the variety of special vehicles the National Automobile Museum always feature at the event. This year's vehicle is the Mystery Machine from Scooby Doo.
Getting Around: Wagons and strollers are allowed, but you may find it hard to navigate the event with so many people in attendance. Dirt paths leading to main lawn area available. Feel free to walk up to the balloons and say hi to the pilots. If planning on exploring during the glow show & dawn patrol, a flashlight may come in handy for finding your way in the dark.
Extras: The Great Reno Balloon Race takes place in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, one of our largest and most dynamic parks. Here, you’ll find plenty of beautiful spaces to explore, including Wilbur D. May Museum ($), a serene pond, arboretum, multiple playgrounds, and much more. If you've been dreaming of riding a hot air balloon, you can pay to ride in one in Lake Tahoe. I actually was so fortunate to ride in this balloon at Rancho Park on media day with pilot Sheldon, who's been flying balloons for about 35 years. Sheldon has been a participant of RGBR for years and often can be found flying at dawn patrol and the glow show. Check out his website for more details and to book a ride.
Sustainability Commitment: Last year's Reno Great Balloon Race started with a greener than ever initiative, featuring solar-powered lights and clean, dependable energy to reduce its carbon footprint. They're proud to lead the way in event sustainability.
***Pets, lasers, & drones are not allowed.***
***No vaping & smoking allowed.***
NEW!!!
RC Hot Air Balloons
The newest addition to the event – remote-controlled (RC) hot air balloons. RC hot air balloons are scaled-down versions of full-sized balloons that rise and fall using radio control. These RC balloons will fly all four days of the event in between Dawn Patrol and Mass Ascension, offering a new way for attendees to experience the wonder of flight as the broader field prepares their full-scale balloons.Finally, remember that balloon races may be canceled if winds exceed 10 mph, so be sure to check the weather before heading out. In the event of cancellation, no refunds will be given. The event relies on parking fees and such to help keep the event free and open to the public.
2026 Photo Contest presented by Reno Tahoe and GRBR
"Submit your favorite photo of GRBR 2026 for a chance to win a hot air balloon ride for 2 during the 2027 event! Submissions will be accepted from September 10-20, 2026. Submissions will be accepted through online link (no limit on submissions) – submission link opens on September 10!
After the submission period ends, the top ones will be selected, and you can vote on your favorite photo finalists. Photos with the most votes win a prize. The voting period will take place in October 2026. Voting can be done through online link – voting link opens in October 2026!"
DID YOU KNOW?!?
There’s a ballooning tradition of celebrating a passenger’s first flight with a champagne toast after landing. It’s a little way of welcoming them into the ballooning family and celebrating the adventure they just experienced.
There’s actually a little competition happening up in the sky. Pilots aren’t racing each other, but they can compete by flying toward designated targets and dropping a marker as close to the target as possible. The closer they get, the more points they earn.
Balloons don’t really “steer” like an airplane. Pilots control their altitude, then use different wind directions at different heights to navigate. It’s more like finding the right invisible highway in the sky.
Side Note: Lake Tahoe Balloons offers a truly unique experience where you actually take off and land on a boat in the middle of Lake Tahoe! The Tahoe Flyer is a specially designed vessel that acts like a floating aircraft carrier for the balloon.
Pictured above is Pilot Sheldon with Sriracha, his iconic yellow balloon with the beautiful tulip design. I had the opportunity to fly with Sheldon during Media Day at the Great Reno Balloon Race one year, and he is every bit as talented and kind as you’d hope your pilot would be. Getting to experience Lake Tahoe from a balloon with him would definitely be something to remember.
***Information subject to change. All opinions are my own.***
Photography
©Katherine Fung,
All rights reserved.
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