Soar Into Reno’s Sky: The Great Reno Balloon Race

Every early September, Reno transforms into a canvas of color and light as the Great Reno Balloon Race—the world’s largest free hot-air ballooning event—takes over Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. Drawing visitors from across the globe, this awe-inspiring spectacle fills the sky with around 100 balloons and brings in more than 140,000 spectators each year.

A Journey Through History

Launched in 1982 with just 20 balloons, the race has grown into a beloved Reno tradition. Over the years, unique touches have been added—like the Tissue Paper Balloon Launch introduced in 1991 and the ethereal Glow Show that began in 1998. Visitors have enjoyed everything from whimsical themed balloons, such as Darth Vader or Smokey Bear, to wheelchair-accessible rides, a VIP tent experience, and even a playful Balloon Blackjack game.

2025 Schedule Snapshot

The event is traditionally held on the Friday through Sunday after Labor Day, with a media preview day beforehand. In 2025, the schedule looks like this:

  • Thursday, Sept. 4 – Media Preview Day featuring an early mass ascension at 7:00 a.m.

  • Friday – Sunday, Sept. 5–7:

    • 3:30 a.m.: Gates open

    • 5:00 a.m.: Super Glow Show—balloons lit like lanterns

    • 5:30 a.m.: Dawn Patrol—early launch of select balloons

    • 6:45 a.m.: National Anthem

    • 7:00 a.m.: Mass Ascension of all balloons

    • 8:00 a.m.: Tethering activities

    • 9:30 a.m.: Tissue Paper Balloon Launch

    • 4:30–11:00 a.m.: Shopping along Balloon Boulevard

What Makes It Magical

The Great Reno Balloon Race is more than just an aerial display—it’s an immersive experience.

  • Glow Show & Dawn Patrol: The sight of balloons glowing in the pre-dawn darkness, followed by a gentle ascent as the sun rises, is unforgettable.

  • Mass Ascension: Over a hundred balloons take to the air together, turning the morning sky into a living painting.

  • Community Spirit: From cheering pilots to browsing local artisan stalls, there’s a vibrant energy that pulls everyone in.

  • Fun for All Ages: With tethered rides, themed balloons, and the creative tissue-paper launch, families and enthusiasts alike find something to enjoy.

Why You Should Be There

This isn’t your average festival—it’s a shared morning ritual that blends light, motion, and joy. Whether you’re sipping hot coffee at dawn, bringing friends and family for the spectacle, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, it’s an experience you won’t forget. For both locals and travelers, it’s a celebration of flight, creativity, and community.