An Uplifting Experience
Did you know that the Great Reno Balloon Race (GRBR) is the worldโs largest, free hot air balloon event, welcoming upwards of 100 amazingly diverse balloons and tens-of-thousands of spectators annually to our beautiful blue Nevada skies? It is! And this year marks the annual eventโs 44th anniversary as it, once again, transforms the verdant pastures at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park into a mystical, magical field of fire-breathing, glowing, spherical giants that rise to fill the morning sky and then gently drift away. And itโs all yours to behold, for free, on September 5-7, 2025.
As a longtime edible Reno Tahoe magazine writer, I was delighted to attend a media preview event on their behalf and got the updates on what to expect this year. Darth Vader, Mango the Sea Horse, Milton and Mario the Race Car, Montie the Black Sheep, Smokey the Bear, and Peanut the Flying Elephant โ all sure to delight the child in us โ will join the multitude of jewel-colored balloons. Back by popular demand will be the complimentary, colorful GRBR โfriendship bracelets.โ
No time to sleep in, people! Each morning will feature the Super Glow Show, where flames from the balloon burners dance in the predawn darkness, followed by Dawn Patrol, the early launch of select balloons before the sun comes up. Then itโs time for the signature event โ the spectacular Mass Ascension โ as all the balloons, rising in close succession, fill the sky at dawn. Itโs a sight not to be missed!
Of course, edible Reno Tahoe magazine is always interested in food, and this time is no exception. Thereโre so many options from simple cocoa to elegant champagne! At the very least, bring your picnic blanket and a thermos filled with hot coffee (or hot chocolate for the kids). Itโs a chilly fall morning so youโll need it! But why stop there? Pack a picnic basket with some breakfast options to munch on โ maybe some nice fruit and cheese, perhaps a few donuts? Orโฆ skip the prep work and visit any, or all, of the variety of food vendors that will be on hand to satisfy your early morning cravings.
Of course, you could opt to go upscale. Theyโve got you covered. While the event is free, you can elevate your experience by purchasing access to Cloud 9, the eventโs exclusive VIP area. Cloud 9 includes early morning access starting at 4 a.m. and provides heated indoor/outdoor patio seating featuring a clear VIP tent on the field, which enables 360 degree views. AND hereโs the really important part โ it includes a catered breakfast service provided by The Silver Legacy, and a hosted bar featuring champagne, bloody marys and mimosas provided by Squeeze In and J Resort Reno. Oh yeah, you also get a VIP parking pass and shuttle service to the tent.
For more information about The Great Reno Balloon Race and to stay updated on event details, visit Renoballoon.com.
As part of this preview event, I also had the rare and amazing opportunity to take a ride in one of the balloons. A huge thank you to Greg Nelson, owner and pilot of the Pixel Perfect Hot Air Balloon, and his wonderful ground crew, for giving me an exhilarating experience I will always remember!
