Balloon, air races return to Reno-Tahoe

High-flying fun returns to Reno-Tahoe with the Great Reno Balloon Race this weekend, Sept. 5-7, followed by the National Championship Air Races next weekend, Sept. 10-14.

From a humble beginning in 1982 with only 20 balloonists participating, the Great Reno Balloon Race has blossomed into one of the country’s premier events for balloon enthusiasts – Reno’s festival is the largest free hot air balloon gathering in the country.

The event now boasts more 140,000 spectators viewing more than 100 balloons soar above the Sierra sky. Less a competition than an opportunity for camaraderie, the festival offers no shortage of parties and events, along with the occasional free ride.

Over three days, spectators make their way to Reno’s Rancho San Rafael Park (map) to be part of the “Dawn Patrol” festivities. Also new for this year is the World’s Largest Pajama Party, where participants are encouraged to arrive in their best (or worst) PJs on Saturday, and compete for bragging rights in contests for “best bed-head,” while enjoying movies, hot chocolate and games during the race’s famous dawn patrol.