Overview

For more than 30 years the airspace of Reno has been popping with color in the fall. No, it’s not autumn leaves; it’s dozens of hot air balloons. They gather for the Great Reno Balloon Race, slowly rising and soaring into the wind. It’s known as the world’s largest free hot air ballooning event. That means you still have some cash to buy food and souvenirs!

Traditionally, the event occurs in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park – a wide open space with view of mountains and building tops in the distance. Show up early to Glow Show or Dawn Patrol to see the balloons light up and flicker against the dark morning sky. Better yet, bring the family to SUPER-GLOW, a show of dancing balloons choreographed to music. If you’re more of a daytime person, that’s fine too. The races show off the bright colors, and sometimes curious shapes, of these massive floating spectacles.