The Great Forest Park Balloon Race

Glow: Friday, September 18
Race: Saturday, September 19
Location: Emerson Central Fields
Cost: Free

The Glow  |  FRIday, SEPTember 18

5 p.m. – Emerson Central Fields Open

• Dance with DJ Reggie at the Main Stage

• Food trucks, concessions and St. Charles Nissan & Hyundai Family Picnic Areas open! (visit the FAQs page for more info about coolers and concessions). 

• Midway concessions, food trucks, inflatables, games and sponsor activities begin

6:45–8:45 p.m.* – Balloon Glow

The balloons “glow” like huge fireflies, a truly magical scene, and one not to be missed! The balloons do not launch during the balloon glow but for a portion of the evening (weather permitting) the rope line will be released, and spectators will be invited to walk around to enjoy the view and chat with pilots and crew.

9 p.m. – U.S. Army Golden Knights Skydiving Team

9:15 p.m. – Fireworks Finale

RACE DAY  |  SATurday, SEPTember 19

1 p.m. – Emerson Central Fields Open

• Celebrate 54 years of GFPBR at the Main Stage featuring DJ Reggie 

• St. Charles Nissan & Hyundai Family Picnic Areas Open

• Purina Children’s Entertainment Area opens, featuring Purina Pro Plan Performance Team performances at 1:15 p.m., 2:30 p.m.

• Midway concessions, food trucks, inflatables, games and sponsor activities begin

3–3:45 p.m. – Opening Ceremonies with appearance from the U.S. Army Golden Knights Skydiving Team

4:30 P.M.** – “Hare” Balloon Launches

4:45 P.M.** – “Hound” Balloons Launch

*The flight window for THE RACE is between 4:30 and 6 p.m. Our goal is always to launch as scheduled. However, exact launch time is weather dependent. The Great Forest Park Balloon Race pilot team monitors wind conditions and flight path details in coordination with the national weather service, our pilots and air traffic control. Real-time updates will be posted on our social media channels.