Event organizers mark National Hot Air Balloon Day with reveal of this year’s balloon race features, new and returning. –
RENO, NV — In celebration of National Hot Air Balloon Day, organizers of the Great Reno Balloon Race have announced exciting new additions to the 2025 event, scheduled for September 5–7 at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. Already the world’s largest free hot air ballooning event, this year’s festival aims to deliver even more awe, innovation, and family fun—both on and off the field.
Here at Sierra Rec Magazine, we’ve been fortunate to experience the event firsthand, from flying on Media Day in 2023 to hosting executive director Pete Copeland on the Sierra Rec Now Podcast last summer. There’s a reason this festival draws more than 150,000 people each year—nothing quite compares to watching the sky come alive at dawn.
New to the field this year are remote-controlled (RC) hot air balloons, scaled-down versions of full-sized balloons that rise and fall using radio control. These RC balloons will fly Thursday following the media day’s Mass Ascension, as well as Friday, Saturday and Sunday in between Dawn Patrol and Mass Ascension, offering a new way for attendees to experience the wonder of flight as the broader field prepares their full-scale balloons.
Also expanding this year is the nonprofit’s Tissue Paper Balloon Launch, a longstanding tradition that introduces Washoe County fifth grade students to the STEM principles required in hot air balloon flight as they craft their own miniature hot air balloon from tissue paper and launch them on the field Traditionally held each Friday, the program will become a two-day event in 2025, for students to fly on both Thursday and Friday at 9:30 a.m. On Friday, Sept. 5, volunteers from Tesla, Greater Nevada Credit Union, Safe Routes, and United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra, will assist with the launch and help manage students on the field. Teachers in Washoe County who would like their students to participate can learn more at www.renoballoon.com and attend a workshop that demonstrates the project and gives them a chance to create the balloon themselves is scheduled for June 12.
The tradition of GRBR friendship bracelets, introduced last year, will continue in 2025 thanks to support from sponsor One Nevada Credit Union. The bracelets are handed out on the field during the festival and occasionally at pre-festival events.
Special shape balloons set to appear this year include returning favorites like Darth Vader, Mango the Seahorse (sponsored by Reno Tahoe), Peanut the Flying Elephant and Mario the Race Car, which will be offering tethering rides courtesy of The Children’s Cabinet.
“While we may not add something new every year, we’re always looking for ways to spark joy and keep the experience meaningful,” said Pete Copeland, executive director of the Great Reno Balloon Race. “What never changes is the magic of seeing those balloons lift into the sky at sunrise. In a world where our attention is constantly pulled in every direction, that shared moment of wonder brings people together—and it’s our responsibility to protect that feeling and keep it alive.”
Media Day and Community Impact
Media Day on Thursday, September 4 gives attendees a sneak peek at this year’s balloon lineup. Complimentary VIP parking and limited vendors will be available. Sierra Rec attended and filmed during 2023’s Media Day—relive that experience here:
Watch the video: Sierra Rec at 2023 Media Day
Or dive deeper into the story with our podcast interview with Pete Copeland:
Listen to the podcast: Sierra Rec Now – Episode with Pete Copeland
The festival doesn’t just offer breathtaking views—it also contributes millions to the regional economy. Nearly 40% of attendees travel from outside the region, many of whom pair their visit with trips to Lake Tahoe, Virginia City, and other Sierra Nevada destinations.
Key Info
- Dates: Sept. 5–7, 2025 (Media Day Sept. 4)
- Location: Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, Reno, NV
- Admission: Free
- Website: www.renoballoon.com
- Educator Workshop: June 12 (details on website)
At Sierra Rec, we’ll be covering the event again this year—so stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes access and morning magic. As Pete Copeland puts it:
“That shared moment of wonder brings people together—and it’s our responsibility to protect that feeling and keep it alive.”
And we couldn’t agree more.
For more information about The Great Reno Balloon Race and to stay updated on event details, visit www.renoballoon.com. For media inquiries, contact Rachel Gattuso, APR at (775) 336-9453 or rachel@gattusocoalition.com.
About The Great Reno Balloon Race:
The Great Reno Balloon Race is the world’s largest free hot air ballooning event. Held annually in Reno, Nevada, since 1982, the event has grown from just 20 balloons to upwards of 100, attracting ballooning enthusiasts and spectators from around the world. The GRBR is a beloved tradition, known for its spectacular balloon displays, vibrant community spirit, and commitment to providing a free, family-friendly event for all to enjoy. To learn more visit www.renoballoon.com.
