The Great Reno Balloon Race is the world’s largest free hot-air ballooning event. During three days in early September, you can look up into the Reno skies and see a rainbow of hot air balloons soaring about. From its humble beginnings in 1982 with just 20 balloons, The Great Reno Balloon Race has taken flight with up to 100 balloons each year.

The Great Reno Balloon Race is FREE to spectators thanks to the generous support of event sponsors. The event is always scheduled to take place the Friday through Sunday after Labor Day.

Schedule of Events:

3:30 am: Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
5:00 am: Super Glow Show, presented by Custom Ink
5:30 am: Dawn Patrol, presented by Custom Ink
6:45 am: National Anthem - Alana Ridge
7:00 am: Mass Ascension Launch
8:00 am: Tethering Activities
9:30 am: E.L. Cord Foundation Tissue Paper Balloon Launch
4:30 am - 11:00 am: Shopping along Balloon Boulevard