Background

Great Reno Balloon Race: A Colorful Celebration of Flight

4.8 (429)

Experience the magic of flight at the Great Reno Balloon Race, a stunning festival that captivates visitors with colorful hot air balloons and festive activities.

The Great Reno Balloon Race is a breathtaking annual event held in San Rafael Regional Park, Reno, where colorful hot air balloons fill the sky at dawn, creating a magical experience for tourists and locals alike. This iconic festival attracts visitors from all over, offering a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of ballooning while enjoying live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Don’t miss the spectacular Balloon Glow at night, where the balloons are illuminated against the dark sky, providing an unforgettable visual treat.

A brief summary to Great Reno Balloon Race

  • Monday 8 am-8 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-8 pm
  • Friday 8 am-8 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-8 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-8 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early to secure a great viewing spot for the balloon launches, which typically begin at dawn.
  • Bring a blanket or chair for comfortable seating while you enjoy the festivities.
  • Check the festival schedule for special events like the Balloon Glow to experience a unique evening atmosphere.
  • Dress in layers, as mornings can be chilly, but it warms up as the sun rises.
  • Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning visuals of the balloons against the sky!
widget icon

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Attraction

Reno Historic Preservation

Discover the Rich Heritage of Reno at the Reno Historic Preservation
Attraction

Gold Dust West Casino - Reno

Experience the Thrill of Gold Dust West Casino in Reno
Attraction

Keystone Escape Games: Escape Room Reno

Unlock the Adventure at Keystone Escape Games in Reno

Unlock the Best of Great Reno Balloon Race

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Getting There

  • Public Transport (Bus)

    To reach the Great Reno Balloon Race at San Rafael Regional Park, you can take the RTC RIDE bus. Start by locating the nearest bus stop. If you're in downtown Reno, find the bus stop at the Reno City Hall. Take Bus Route 10 (West Fourth Street) towards the 'Reno/Sparks' area. Ride for about 15 minutes and get off at the 'Rancho Connector' stop. From there, it's a short 5-minute walk to San Rafael Regional Park. Head west on Rancho Connector, then turn left onto the park entrance.

  • Bicycle

    If you prefer to bike, you can rent a bicycle from one of the local bike-sharing services available in Reno. Start from downtown Reno and head northwest on the Riverwalk Trail towards the Truckee River. Continue on the designated bike lanes to the intersection of N. Virginia Street and W. 7th Street. From there, turn left onto W. 7th Street and follow it until you reach the intersection with Rancho Road. Turn right onto Rancho Road, then follow it to San Rafael Regional Park.

  • Walking

    If you are staying nearby and prefer to walk, start by heading towards the nearest main road. If you are in downtown Reno, walk northwest on N. Virginia Street. Continue walking for about a mile until you reach W. 7th Street. Turn left onto W. 7th Street and proceed until you reach Rancho Road. Turn right onto Rancho Road and walk for approximately half a mile to reach San Rafael Regional Park.

Discover more about Great Reno Balloon Race

The Great Reno Balloon Race is an enchanting annual event that transforms the skies of Reno into a vibrant canvas of color and creativity. Taking place in the picturesque San Rafael Regional Park, this festival draws thousands of visitors each year who come to witness the breathtaking sight of dozens of hot air balloons ascending at dawn. As the sun rises, the balloons, adorned with various designs and colors, gracefully fill the blue sky, creating a magical atmosphere that captivates everyone in attendance. The event typically takes place in early September, making it a perfect time for tourists to experience the beauty of Reno. Beyond the awe-inspiring balloon launches, the Great Reno Balloon Race offers a variety of activities suited for all ages. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, delicious food from local vendors, and engaging activities for children. The festival also features the beloved Balloon Glow event, where balloons are tethered to the ground and illuminated after sunset, creating a stunning display of light and color that is a feast for the eyes. This unique experience is perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to create unforgettable memories together. Plan your visit to the Great Reno Balloon Race to immerse yourself in a world of joy and wonder, where the spirit of community and the love of flight come together in a celebration unlike any other. Be sure to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the event attracts large crowds eager to experience this spectacular showcase of hot air balloons in all their glory.

Explore the best of what Great Reno Balloon Race has to offer

Mobile App

Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.



More about Reno

File:Reno arch.jpg - Wikipedia

Discover Reno, the Biggest Little City in the World, where vibrant nightlife, outdoor adventure, and a thriving arts scene await you in the heart of Nevada.

Tell me more about Reno
Attraction

Experience the excitement at Sensology, Reno's top amusement center, where fun and adventure await for all ages.

Sensology
Attraction

Explore the captivating history of Reno, NV at the Reno Historic Preservation, where the past comes alive through preserved stories and architectural beauty.

Reno Historic Preservation

Select Currency