PHOTOS: Balloons Lift Off for 2019

The 38th annual Great Reno Balloon Race takes off this weekend at Rancho San Rafael Regional Park. The largest free hot-air balloon event in the world, the 2019 GRBR will feature upwards of 100 balloons and is expected to draw around 125,000 spectators.

The Race starts Friday, September 6 before dawn and will continue through mid-day Sunday, September 8. Each morning begins before dawn when the tethered balloons light their burners for an early morning Glow Show. Then select pilots take off for a Dawn Patrol flight. Then, at 6:45 AM, the mass ascension marks the start of the day’s competitions.

The event also features a number of artisans, vendors, and tethered balloons available for rides. Attendees spread blankets in the park and watch all events with their morning coffees—or mimosas—while tagging their best photos with #RenoBalloonRace.

Detailed information on parking, public transportation, and other logistics available at https://renoballoon.com.