The Great Reno Balloon Race: A Spectacle in the Sky
Submitted by paula on Sat, 09/14/2024 - 9:04pm
Following the Glow Show came Dawn Patrol, where a handful of balloons ascended before sunrise, lit by their burners, creating the illusion of stars floating through the sky. As the early light of dawn spread across the mountains, these illuminated balloons drifted above the Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, offering a stunning and mesmerizing view against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada.
As the sun rose, the event's highlight was the mass ascension, when all 75 balloons filled the sky in a stunning display of color and creativity. The variety was impressive, from classic designs to character-shaped balloons. Some of the hot air balloons included designs such as a fish, a strawberry, a black sheep, a sloth, Smokey Bear, and more. Families and friends gathered on blankets, watching the balloons drift above and capturing photos on their cellphones and cameras. During the event, families are able to walk around and visit vendors to acquire coffee, mimosas, breakfast, and Bloody Mary’s. And, of course, there were plenty of restrooms and open areas to walk around to take in the views of the hot air balloons.
If you missed this year’s Great Reno Balloon Race, make sure to experience it in September 2025! Just a short drive from South Lake Tahoe and Sacramento, this event is perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you’re mesmerized by the Glow Show, Dawn Patrol, or the mass ascension, you’ll witness an unforgettable spectacle that’s sure to amaze you!
Mark your calendars for September 5-7, 2025, and get ready to witness the magic of flight next year in Reno!
Every September, Reno’s skies come alive during The Great Reno Balloon Race, a one-of-a-kind event featuring 100 vibrant hot air balloons. This year’s race was nothing short of magical, captivating thousands of spectators with breathtaking displays that began before the sun even rose.
The event kicked off with the Glow Show at 5 a.m., where massive balloons lit up the dark sky in sync with music, looking like lanterns in the sky. The sight of these glowing giants flickering in the pre-dawn darkness was a spectacle that left visitors breathless. One attendee described the Glow Show as, “stepping into a dream,” as the glowing balloons created a surreal and peaceful atmosphere.
Following the Glow Show came Dawn Patrol, where a handful of balloons ascended before sunrise, lit by their burners, creating the illusion of stars floating through the sky. As the early light of dawn spread across the mountains, these illuminated balloons drifted above the Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, offering a stunning and mesmerizing view against the backdrop of the Sierra Nevada.
As the sun rose, the event's highlight was the mass ascension, when all 75 balloons filled the sky in a stunning display of color and creativity. The variety was impressive, from classic designs to character-shaped balloons. Some of the hot air balloons included designs such as a fish, a strawberry, a black sheep, a sloth, Smokey Bear, and more. Families and friends gathered on blankets, watching the balloons drift above and capturing photos on their cellphones and cameras. During the event, families are able to walk around and visit vendors to acquire coffee, mimosas, breakfast, and Bloody Mary’s. And, of course, there were plenty of restrooms and open areas to walk around to take in the views of the hot air balloons.
If you missed this year’s Great Reno Balloon Race, make sure to experience it in September 2025! Just a short drive from South Lake Tahoe and Sacramento, this event is perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway. Whether you’re mesmerized by the Glow Show, Dawn Patrol, or the mass ascension, you’ll witness an unforgettable spectacle that’s sure to amaze you!
Mark your calendars for September 5-7, 2025, and get ready to witness the magic of flight next year in Reno!