Recently, Northern Nevada found its way onto the pages of Travel + Leisure magazine for something other than Burning Man and Lake Tahoe. For those of us who live here, it comes as no surprise that Reno in September is something to talk about! Host to the world’s largest free hot-air ballooning event, this stunning celebration of flight has been going on for 42 years.

In 1982, 20 hot air balloons were making their debut in Reno. Today, we can expect up to 100 vibrant and sometimes hilarious balloons to take flight. Scheduled to take place at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park on September 8th - 10th. Combining music, vendors, and specialty booths, this event promises to dazzle crowds, young and old. Get up early for Dawn Patrol, where balloons light up the morning sky, or delight in the Super Glow Show, a light show like no other. 

If a balloon ride is on your bucket list, visit the Balloon Nevada website to book an unforgettable ride! You’ll have a bird's eye view of all the balloons as they lift off, one after the other. Prices start at $425 per person for the Classic tour to $5100 for an 8-guest VIP package. Sold on a first-come, first-served basis, so you’ll want to book now!

If you lived for your elementary school science fair, you’d want to stop by the park on Friday, September 8th at 9 am for the E.L. Cord Foundation Tissue Paper Balloon Launch. 5th graders around the region will construct a model hot air balloon from tissue paper. Get ready to be “highly” amused! 

Head to Balloon Boulevard for food truck options to please everyone in your party. Although most merchants accept credit and debit cards, bring cash for speedy transactions. ATMs will be stationed in this area, according to the GRBR organizers. 

Parking is limited, so you will want to arrive early to get the closest parking spots. You can also park for free at UNR’s Green and Blue 1 lots on the northwest side of Mackay Stadium. For more parking information, click HERE.

The best part about this event is that you can be almost anywhere in NW Reno to enjoy it, and if, by chance, you’ve found yourself in the perfect place at the perfect time, snap a picture and submit your photo for a chance to win a hot air balloon ride for 2 for next years event. Sponsored by Reno Tahoe and GRBR.

See why we are so proud of this community event. It’s guaranteed to ‘lift your spirits!”