Every fall, I find myself waking up before sunrise for one of Reno Tahoe’s most magical traditions: Reno Balloon Races. There is something unforgettable about standing in Rancho San Rafael Regional Park as dozens of glowing hot air balloons rise quietly into the cool morning sky, painting the horizon with color while the mountains fade in and out of the light. After attending year after year, I can tell you this is not just an event, it is an experience that stays with you. Families spread blankets on the grass, kids chase balloon shadows, and strangers become friends as everyone shares that collective moment of awe. It is one of those rare Reno mornings where time slows down and the city feels connected in the most beautiful way…except that one year our field trip made the national news, but that is a story for another day.
What makes the Reno Balloon Races so special is how they capture everything people fall in love with about Reno Tahoe living. The open skies, the outdoor lifestyle, the sense of community, and the way nature and celebration blend seamlessly together. Visitors travel from all over to witness the dawn patrol launches, balloon glow evenings, and mass ascensions, often pairing the races with trips to nearby Lake Tahoe, downtown dining, and weekend adventures. As someone who has watched countless balloons lift off over Northern Nevada, I can confidently say this event offers a perfect snapshot of life here: peaceful yet vibrant, adventurous yet grounded. For anyone considering visiting or even calling Reno home, the Reno Balloon Races reveal exactly why so many of us choose to stay.
THE RENO BALLOON RACES LOCATION
The Reno Balloon Races are held at the first part of September at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park.
1595 N Sierra St • Reno • NV
GLOW SHOW / DAWN PATROL
The Dawn Patrol launches begin around 5:30 am, while the popular Super Glow Show starts at approximately 5:00 am. Gates to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park typically open at 3:30 am, giving spectators time to arrive, park, and settle in before the balloons begin to glow and lift off into the early morning sky.
RENO BALLOON RACES PARKING & TICKETS
Parking is available at the event and is not free. In past years, parking has been cash only, with VIP parking options available for purchase. Free parking can often be found on nearby streets, surrounding neighborhoods, and in select lots at the University of Nevada Reno, located just a few blocks away.
Entry to the Reno Balloon Races is free and very kid friendly, making it one of the most accessible family events in Reno Tahoe.
The glow shows and dawn patrol launches can also be viewed from the Reno Softball Complex at 2975 N Virginia Street.
RENO BALLOON RACES VIP TICKETS
VIP ticket options are available and may include breakfast, beverages, and heated seating areas on the field. These packages offer a more comfortable way to experience the early morning balloon launches.
FOR MORE INFO
For more information about this event, visit The Reno Balloon Races.
