The skies over Reno are about to get even more colorful.
For the first time ever, the Great Reno Balloon Race is expanding to four days, giving locals and visitors even more opportunities to experience one of Northern Nevada’s most beloved traditions. From the glow of the balloons before sunrise to the breathtaking Mass Ascension, it’s a weekend that captures everything people love about Reno.
And after a morning at the balloons, there’s only one thing left to do: brunch.
Great Reno Balloon Race 2026 Details
Dates: September 10-13, 2026
Location: Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, Reno, Nevada
Admission: Free
To experience the event at its best, plan to arrive before dawn. You’ll catch the Glow Show, Dawn Patrol, and watch dozens of colorful hot air balloons rise over Reno as the sun comes up. It’s a bucket-list experience whether you’re a lifelong local or visiting Northern Nevada for the first time.
Why the Great Reno Balloon Race Is a Reno Favorite
For more than four decades, the Great Reno Balloon Race has brought families, photographers, and balloon enthusiasts together for one unforgettable weekend. In 2026, that tradition grows even bigger with the event’s first four-day celebration to commemorate 45 years of this event.
There’s something magical about standing in the cool morning air with a warm drink in your hands, watching hundreds of volunteers, pilots, and crews bring the balloons to life. Kids look up in amazement, cameras click from every direction, and for a few hours, Reno feels completely transformed.
It’s one of the reasons we’re proud to support this incredible community event year after year.
Squeeze In Is Proud to Be Part of the Tradition
As a longtime community sponsor, Squeeze In is honored to once again be part of the Great Reno Balloon Race.
Our own Kay Young and Shila Morris will return as co-announcers alongside the legendary Ron Smith, helping welcome guests, introduce balloon launches, and share in the excitement throughout the weekend.
Supporting events that bring people together is at the heart of who we are, and few events do that better than the Great Reno Balloon Race.
Looking for Breakfast Near the Great Reno Balloon Race?
After an early morning outside, you’ll probably be ready for a hot cup of coffee and a breakfast worth waking up for.
Whether you’re craving one of our famous omelettes, fluffy pancakes, Eggs Benedict, fresh scrambles, or one of our signature brunch cocktails, Squeeze In is the perfect stop after the balloons.
Our Reno-area restaurants are just a short drive from Rancho San Rafael Regional Park:
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- NW Reno: Opens at 7:00 AM
- South Reno: Opens at 7:30 AM
- Sparks: Opens at 7:30 AM
- Midtown Reno: Opens at 7:30 AM
If you’re searching for breakfast near the Great Reno Balloon Race, Reno brunch, or the best breakfast in Reno, we’d love to welcome you after the festivities.
Make It a Reno Morning to Remember
The Great Reno Balloon Race is more than an event. It’s a Northern Nevada tradition that brings generations together to celebrate community, adventure, and a little bit of wonder.
Start your morning watching hundreds of colorful balloons fill the Reno sky, then continue the tradition with breakfast at Squeeze In.
