The Great Forest Park Balloon Race, presented by PNC Bank, will return to Forest Park’s Emerson Central Fields, Sept. 20-21. This free two-day event, which includes the glow on Sept. 20 and the race on Sept. 21, will bring families and friends together for a time of outdoor fun, “wow” moments and lasting memories.
The Great Forest Park Balloon Race is one of the longest-running hot air balloon races in the United States and one of the only races that takes place in a large metropolitan city. The tradition began in 1973 with a handful of hot air balloons and a few spectators. Today, the internationally renowned event welcomes more than 50 of the nation’s best hot air balloon pilots and thousands of spectators annually.
Thanks to the generous contributions of event sponsors, including presenting sponsor PNC Bank, Washington University in St. Louis and Blue Moon Brewing Co., this beloved community tradition is free for all to enjoy.
“The Great Forest Park Balloon Race exemplifies the brilliance of this region in so many ways and has something to offer for all St. Louisans,” said Michael Scully, PNC regional president for St. Louis. “All of us at PNC look forward to helping bring this remarkable event to life for a community that means so much to us.”
The hot air balloons will be surrounded by a festival environment featuring photo opportunities, inflatable games, giveaways, musical performances, fireworks, parachutists and much more. Local food trucks and carnival vendors will offer a variety of beverages and treats to please every palate.
“There’s something special about how hot air balloons elicit wonder and make you feel like a kid again, no matter your age. We are proud of the way this annual tradition brings friends and families together to relax outside and create new memories together,” said Jessica Stegen, Director of Communications and Event Production for Great Forest Park Balloon Race. “Our 2024 planning team has worked with a renewed focus on enhancing the entire festival experience for the tens of thousands of people who join us throughout the weekend.”
Announcements, answers to frequently asked questions, updated maps and 2024 parking information can be viewed on the event website, www.greatforestparkballoonrace.com.
