Reno, Nevada – September 2,2023– The Great Reno Balloon Race, the world’s largest free hot-air balloon event, is back for its 42nd year of soaring into the hearts of the community and captivating audiences from near and far. Since its modest beginnings in 1982, this iconic event has remained a cherished staple, drawing generations of families together for a weekend filled with wonder and enchantment.
From its humble start with just 20 hot-air balloons, the festival has expanded to include upwards of 100 vibrant and imaginative balloons, including special shapes that add an extra layer of excitement to the spectacle. With a yearly attendance of over 150,000 enthusiastic spectators, The Great Reno Balloon Race continues to touch the lives of countless individuals, much like the colorful balloons that grace the skies.
On the festival grounds, spectators gather in the early morning hours, some still in their pajamas, to enjoy the ethereal daily Super Glow Show that illuminates the pre-dawn sky. As the sun begins to rise, the event takes flight with the Dawn Patrol, followed by the breathtaking Mass Ascension, where a myriad of balloons ascend in unison. Meanwhile, a select group of balloons engages in the competitive aspect of the event, thrilling audiences as they vie for the title of the eponymous race champion. Tens of thousands of visitors look on in awe, patronize local vendors, and embark on tethered balloon rides, providing an up-close and personal experience with these majestic flying giants.
“The Great Reno Balloon Race is more than an event; it’s a cherished tradition that has woven itself into the fabric of our community,” said Charlie Pankey, Sierra Rec Magazine. “Families who attended in the early years are now returning with their children and even grandchildren, creating a beautiful cycle of generations coming together to share in the magic of this festival.”
In its 42nd year, The Great Reno Balloon Race promises to deliver another unforgettable experience for attendees. With 100 percent of visitors surveyed expressing their intention to recommend the event to friends and 98 percent planning to return, it’s clear that this tradition is not only enduring but also growing stronger with each passing year.
Join us for the 42nd Reno Balloon Festival from Friday Sept 8 – Sunday Sept 10 at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park . Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of colorful hot-air balloons filling the Nevada skies and become part of a tradition that continues to unite communities and inspire wonder. For more information and updates, please visit https://renoballoon.com/event-info/schedule-of-events/.
The Great Reno Balloon Race 2023
September 8th – 10th
Thursday, September 7
Media Preview Day
6:45 a.m. – National Anthem with Alana Ridge
6:45 a.m. – Preview Day Launch (Invited Media)
Friday, September 8
3:30 a.m. – Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
5:00 a.m. – Super Glow Show, presented by Custom Ink
5:30 a.m. – 40th Anniversary of Dawn Patrol, presented by Custom Ink
6:45 a.m. – Reno Air Races T-6 Flyover
6:50 a.m. – National Anthem with Ashley Melendez
7:00 a.m. – Mass Ascension Launch
9:30 a.m. – E.L. Cord Foundation Tissue Paper Balloon Launch
4:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m – Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
Saturday, September 9
Paint The Park Pink
3:30 a.m. – Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
5:00 a.m. – Super Glow Show, presented by Custom Ink
5:30 a.m. – 40th Anniversary of Dawn Patrol, presented by Custom Ink
6:50 a.m. National Anthem with Sierra High Notes
7:00 a.m. – Mass Ascension Launch
4:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.- Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
Sunday, September 10
3:30 a.m. – Gates open to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
5:00 a.m – Super Glow Show, presented by Country Financial
5:30 a.m. – 40th Anniversary of Dawn Patrol, presented by Country Financial
6:50 a.m. – National Anthem with Nick Eng
7:00 a.m. – Mass Ascension Launch, presented by Country Financial
4:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.- Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
EVENT LOCATION
Rancho San Rafael Regional Park
1595 N. Sierra St.
Reno, Nevada
About The Great Reno Balloon Race: The Great Reno Balloon Race is the world’s largest free hot-air balloon event, founded in 1982. It has grown into an iconic tradition that brings together families, friends, and visitors from around the globe to witness the magic of hot-air balloons taking flight against the stunning backdrop of Reno, Nevada.
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