May 16–18, 2025 – Carson Valley, NV
There’s something undeniably magical about seeing a hot air balloon rise into the early morning sky — the colors, the calm, the slow-motion lift that makes your heart float a little too.
This weekend, that magic returns to the Eastern Sierra’s most peaceful front porch as the Hot Air for Hope Balloon Festival lights up Carson Valley for its third year. Set against the rugged ridge line of the Sierra and cradled by open fields and bluebird skies, this festival isn’t just a photo op — it’s a celebration of hope, healing, and community.
If you’re looking for a meaningful family weekend, a scenic escape from the usual crowds, or just an excuse to wander into one of the Sierra’s most serene corners — this is your sign.
🎈 The Festival: Where Wonder Takes Flight
At Lampe Park in Gardnerville, you’ll find the heart of the event — and you’ll want to get there early. Balloons launch at sunrise on both Friday and Saturday mornings, filling the sky with color and wonder. Then, return in the evening for the “Fire It Up” balloon glow, where pilots ignite burners and light up the valley with a dazzling display of illuminated balloons set to music.
More than 30 balloons will be on display this year, including returning favorites from the Reno Balloon Race and community-loved pilots who are excited to bring families into the world of ballooning.
But Hot Air for Hope isn’t just about what’s happening in the sky — it’s what’s happening on the ground that makes this event so special.
As co-founder Amanda Johnson shared on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast, the mission is simple: “We want kids to touch the baskets, meet the pilots, and dream big.” The event supports the Center for Hope & Healing and includes STEM-focused programs in local schools, giving kids hands-on experiences with science and flight.
🏞️ Stay for the Day: Discover the Magic of Carson Valley
Once the balloons have drifted off, don’t rush home — Carson Valley is just getting started. Nestled along the Eastern Sierra’s edge, this region is full of discovery for curious travelers and outdoor-loving families.
Here’s how to make the most of your daytime adventures after the morning launch:
🏛️ Dive into Local History
- Genoa: Nevada’s oldest settlement is just minutes away. Stroll the wooden sidewalks, visit the Genoa Bar (Nevada’s oldest thirst parlor), and learn about Snowshoe Thompson, the legendary mailman of the Sierra.
- Dangberg Home Ranch Historic Park: Tour the preserved ranch home of one of Carson Valley’s founding families.
- Carson Valley Museum & Cultural Center: Great for families, with hands-on exhibits on pioneer life, Basque culture, and regional wildlife.
🚶♀️ Hit the Trails
- The Carson Valley Trail System offers miles of open-space hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Our favorite? The Fay-Luther Trail Network, which offers panoramic views of Jobs Peak, blooming wildflowers, and quiet solitude.
🐴 Look for Wild Horses
- You might spot the wild mustangs that roam the hills east of Gardnerville — a breathtaking reminder that this valley still belongs to the wild.
⛳ Play a Round or Two
- The valley is home to several beautiful golf courses with sweeping Sierra views — including the championship-rated Genoa Lakes courses.
🍽️ Savor the Culture
- Basque cuisine is a local treasure here. Sit down for a family-style meal at JT Basque Bar & Dining Room, and be sure to try the Picon Punch (but maybe not if you’re heading back for the evening glow!).
📅 Festival Essentials
- Morning Launches: Friday & Saturday & Sunday| ~5:30–7:30 AM | Lampe Park, Gardnerville
- Fire It Up Glow Shows: Friday Starting at 6pm | Lampe Park
- Live Music and Festival Events at the Park Saturday and Sunday 5:30 am – 3Pm
- Entry: Free to attend, food and drink available for purchase
- Tips: Dress warm for the mornings, bring camp chairs or blankets, and arrive early — parking fills up fast!
📸 Tag Your Adventure
Attending this weekend? Tag us on Instagram or Facebook with #HotAirForHope and #SierraRecMagazine — we’ll be onsite sharing stories, capturing the glow, and meeting the amazing volunteers, families, and visitors that bring this festival to life.
Come for the balloons. Stay for the stories. And discover why Carson Valley just might be the most uplifting place in the Sierra this spring.
