Great Reno Balloon Race 30th Anniversary

You've got to get up early (like way before dawn early) to enjoy the spectacular sights of the Great Reno Balloon Race. Two events, the Glow Show and Dawn Patrol, occur while it's still dark. For the mass ascension, over 100 hot air balloons begin inflating their envelopes as the night sky gives way to early morning light. By the time daylight arrives, the sky is punctuated with an amazing variety of colorful balloons, from the conventional round ones to specialty shapes such as a Bald Eagle, Smokey Bear, Wells Fargo Bees Lilly and Joey, the Energizer Bunny, and for the first time this year, Darth Vader.

Mass ascension at the Great Reno Balloon Race.
Photo © Stan White

The Great Reno Balloon Race is a free family event, running September 9 through 11. You can register to participate in two events: Bed Head Competition and World's Largest Pajama Party. Check the Schedule of Events to find out more about everything going on at Rancho San Rafael Park in Reno.

On Sunday, September 11, the Great Reno Balloon Race will be the site of northern Nevada's official 10th anniversary commemoration of the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States. Starting at 6:30 a.m., Governor Brian Sandoval will address the crowd. Other dignitaries in attendance will be Reno Mayor Bob Cashell, Sparks Mayor Geno Martini, and Washoe County Commissioner and Chairman John Breternitz. An honor guard of police and fire units from Reno and Sparks, and the Washoe County Sheriff's Office, will present the colors. During the mass ascension following the ceremony, all balloons will carry an American flag in remembrance of the occasion.

Hot air balloon flying is dependent on the weather. If it's too windy or there are other adverse conditions, some activities may be curtailed or even grounded. It's a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading out.

Parking is free at the University of Nevada, Reno directly across N. Virginia Street from Rancho San Rafael Park, but you'll have to walk a few blocks to reach the balloon launch field. Parking inside the park is limited - you won't get a space here unless you arrive mighty early. Other nearby lots require a donation to park. RTC RIDE will also be running bus services to the event. Get all the details from the parking and transportation web page. You can reduce the parking hassle by purchasing a VIP parking pass, but do so soon before they are sold out. If this is your first time at the Great Reno Ballon Race, or if you just need a refresher, check out these spectator tips.

Virginia City International Camel Races - You don't have to get up early to enjoy this event, which runs on the same dates at the balloon race. Attending the Virginia City International Camel Races is a fun way to enjoy the sights and sounds of the historic Comstock at Virginia City. There are also ostrich and emu races, plus a variety of parades and specialty acts.

Get more Reno / Tahoe information: