Gabbi Hall
Like many things in Reno, Nevada, the Great Reno Balloon Races may not be the most well-known hot-air balloon event in the world, but it’s an opportunity to get up close and personal. Oh, and did I mention it’s free? That’s right. All the whimsy of watching hot-air balloons at sunrise at no cost to you (except an early wake-up call).
When is the Great Reno Balloon Race?
The Great Reno Balloon Races happen each September—the weekend after Labor Day. It officially spans 3 days (Friday through Sunday) at Rancho San Rafael Park, but many balloons will fly over the city the week before. So, you might get a show on your commute to work. I love watching them from my office.
What time is the Great Reno Balloon Race?
This will be a tough pill to swallow if you’re not a morning person. The gates at Rancho San Rafael Park open at 3:30 am, and the show typically starts around 5 am. And it will be packed early. Plan to arrive early, and dress warmly. Takeoff happens around 7 am, and you’ll be able to walk around the entire field of balloons and capture some amazing photos.
What’s the deal with parking?
If you don’t want to worry about finding parking around the park and surrounding neighborhoods, you may want to consider VIP passes. There is some limited parking for $20 which opens at 3:30 am and it’s cash only. Of course, paying for the parking helps keep the event free!
Things to consider when you attend
- If you can avoid parking and walk, bike or scooter to the park, do it. There will be traffic coming in and finding parking may not be easy unless you’re there super early.
- If you do want to park, have at least $20 cash on you in case you need to pay to park nearby.
- It’s going to be packed. This is a beloved local event. Treat everyone around you with respect. We’re all there to see the show.
- You can get up close and personal with the balloons as you stroll through the fields and meet the crews, but don’t touch the balloons unless you’re invited to. Remember, there are flames that send hot-air balloons into the sky.
- Once the sun comes up, it’s going to get warm, and you’ll want to shed layers. Make sure you have a backpack to store them in, so you can comfortably walk around.
- There are porta-potties available around the park, so you can safely drink your coffee. Don’t worry. But you may want to use them before the show starts, so you don’t miss any fun.
Want to stay the weekend in Reno, Nevada?
If you’re from out of town, make a whole weekend out of the Great Reno Balloon Races. I recommend staying downtown, which is closest to the activity and you get walking access to some of the best things to do, bars and dining that the city offers. You may want to consider a stay at The Row Reno if you want to do things like go to the spa, gamble and dine in a one-stop-shop location.
I hope to see you next year at the balloon races in Reno, Nevada. Until next time, here goes nothing.
