RENO, Nev. (News 4 & Fox 11) — Want to take part in the world’s largest free balloon event? You’re in luck. The Great Reno Balloon Race returns to Rancho San Rafael starting Friday and running through the weekend.

The Great Reno Balloon Race is actually a race! Check out our explainer story here.

Event Schedule

Friday September 6, 2024

• 03:30am Gates open
• 04:30-11:00 Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
• 5:00am Super Glow Show, presented by Custom Ink
• 5:30am Dawn Patrol, presented by Custom Ink
• 6:45am National Anthem – Alana Ridge
• 06:45 Mass takeoff for women in aviation
• 07:00 AM Mass Ascension Day Launch
• 08:00 am Tethering Activities
• 9:30 AM EL Cord Foundation Tissue Paper Balloon Launch

Saturday, September 7, 2024 – Paint the park pink

Spectators are encouraged to wear pink in honor of breast cancer awareness efforts

• 03:30am Gates open
• 04:30-11:00 Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
• 5:00am Super Glow Show, presented by Custom Ink
• 5:30am Dawn Patrol, presented by Custom Ink
• 6:45am National Anthem – Nick Sorrentino\
• 06:45 Mass takeoff for women in aviation
• 07:00 AM Mass Ascension Day Launch
• 08:00 am Tethering Activities

Sunday September 8th

• 03:30am Gates open
• 04:30-11:00 Shopping along Balloon Boulevard
• 05.00 am Super Glow Show
• 5:30am Dawn Patrol, presented by Swizzle
• 6:45am – National Anthem – Jessica Pauletto
• 06:45 Mass takeoff for women in aviation
• 07:00 AM Mass Ascension Day Launch
• 08:00 am Tethering Activities

Where can I park?

Parking at Rancho San Rafael

Gates open at 3:30. For a $25 donation to the event (cash only), participants can park in two parking lots of their choice at the corner of Sierra Street and McCarran Blvd., and on Coleman Street. These lots are a short walk from the field.

Parking at University of Nevada, Reno

Those able to walk moderate distances can park for free in the University car parks in the Green and Blue 1 car parks on the north-west side of Mackay Stadium. Cars must be removed by 11am (subject to earlier removal on Saturdays prior to the University’s afternoon match).

RTC – Don’t drive, come on!

RTC is adding additional service to the RAPID Virginia Line from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. on September 6, 7, and 8, extending the route to Rancho San Rafael Park. Passengers boarding at stops along the RAPID Virginia Line route will be able to ride the 15-minute service to the park for FREE. Buses are handicap accessible. Visit rtcwashoe.com to plan your trip.