Boise’s skies are about to be transformed with endless colorful balloons once again as the 33rd anniversary of the Scott Spencer Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic returns to Ann Morrison Park this Labor Day weekend! From August 28th to September 1st, the city with buzz with five days of community fun, breathtaking views, and the magic that only a mass launching of hot air balloons can bring to the City of Trees.
Spirit of Boise Pro Tips
Ann Morrison Park, in the heart of downtown Boise, is the best place to witness the great launch of these stunning balloons as they take to the Boise sky. Don’t miss the chance to get a front-row seat and remember these pro tips to make the most of your experience:
- Come Prepared: Bring a waterproof blanket or chairs to sit on while you wait for the balloons to ignite. The morning dew can make the grass on the front lawn of the park pretty soggy. Just don’t forget to leave plenty of space for the balloons to spread out before they launch! "If a pilot or crew member asks you to move your chairs, please do so with a smile."
- Bundle Up: The early mornings before the sun rises can be chilly, so bring a jacket, blanket, and something warm to drink. You’ll be glad you did while waiting for the balloon launches!
- Parking Tips: Parking is very limited within the park, so be prepared to park a bit further away and enjoy a walk to the park. There is no parking available in the park on Friday night. Crescent Rim will also not have parking on Friday for the Nite Glow Spectacular as it has been in previous years. Get parking details on the website here. If you can, bike in or ride the bus!
- Pup-Free Zone: While we love our dogs, the high-pitched noise from the balloons' burners can be uncomfortable and hurtful for them, so it’s best to leave your furry friends at home.
- Watch the balloons from a different location than the park: If you're running short on time or want to avoid the parking situation, try watching the skies for balloons from another location. Consider hanging around downtown, in the foothills or at Ester Simplot Park - many balloons have been known to land in this area!
- Monitor the weather: Most years at least one of the morning launches is canceled due to weather. Keep an eye on their Instagram and Facebook Pages for cancellation notices.
Spirit of Boise Event Schedule
Wednesday, August 28 - CapEd Kid’s Day
- 7:00 AM | Launch
- 7:40 AM | Kid’s Day Activities
CapEd Credit Union brings you Kid’s Day, a fun-filled morning where your little ones can get up close and personal with the balloons. Free tethered rides are available to kids on a first come-first served basis.
Thursday, August 29 - Media Day
- 6:45 AM | Balloons are at the Park
- 7:20 AM | Optional Flight for Media Day
Catch the media in action and witness photographers capturing the beauty of the balloons during Media Day.
Friday morning and Friday night, August 30 - Launch Day & Nite Glow
- 6:45 AM | Pilots arrive in the park
- 7:20 AM | Morning Launch
- 7:30 PM | Nite Glow Activities - food, vendors and live music
- 8:45 PM | Nite Glow Spectacular
Friday is a day to remember, with morning launches followed by the incredible Nite Glow in the evening. Watch as the balloons light up the night in a dazzling display while staying tethered to the ground. This is a crowd favorite and fun way to hang out with family and friends. Remember - there is no parking in the park on Friday night.
Saturday, August 31 - Morning Launch
- 6:45 AM | Balloons arrive
- 7:20 AM | Launch
Watch the skies come alive with a mass ascension of balloons on Saturday morning as the community gathers to witness the beauty of dozens of balloons floating over downtown Boise and its historic landmarks, like the Capitol Building.
Sunday, September 1 - Final Launch
- 6:00 AM | Dawn Patrol & Inflation
- 7:20 AM | Launch
On the last day of the festival, the first gathering of balloons takes place in the early morning with a special Dawn Patrol.
This event is as much about community as it is about the balloon rides and family fun. With food vendors offering delicious local bites, occasional balloons landing in surprising spots like the middle of Broadway Avenue, and entertainment from sponsors like CBH Homes, the Spirit of Boise truly embodies the heart of the Treasure Valley.
Mark your calendars, and don’t miss out on this year’s celebration! Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been attending for years, the Spirit of Boise is bound to leave you with memories of much fun, great photos, and the unique beauty of the balloons floating above the city we all love.
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