Prosser, Washington
Experience the Rally
The Great Prosser Balloon Rally
September 25–27, 2026
Join us for three unforgettable sunrise mornings as colorful balloons rise above Prosser’s vineyards, orchards, and the Yakima River.
Whether it’s your first Rally or a family tradition, we’re excited to welcome you to a weekend of hot air balloons, community, and lasting memories.
Free admission & free parking
Sunrise Launches
The magic begins on the ground
Arrive before sunrise and watch the magic unfold as pilots and crews prepare for flight and colorful balloons slowly take shape against the morning sky. Meet fellow spectators, enjoy the energy of the field, and be part of one of Prosser’s most cherished traditions.
When conditions are safe, balloons lift off around sunrise and drift wherever the wind leads. Because safety is our top priority, balloon activity may sometimes be limited to inflation only or canceled altogether due to weather conditions.
Read the rally story →Small Town · Big Sky
A tradition worth waking up for
Before the sun rises over the valley, pilots study the wind, crews prepare for flight, and spectators gather in anticipation of the day ahead.
Since 1991, the Great Prosser Balloon Rally has brought pilots, volunteers, neighbors, and visitors together to celebrate the beauty of flight. Every morning offers something different, but the sense of community and wonder remains the same. Whether balloons fill the sky or weather keeps them grounded, there’s always magic to be found on the field.
Read the rally story →
The weekend
Four ways to experience the magic
Watch the field come alive before sunrise, follow the balloons across the valley, enjoy the magic of Night Glow, and explore a community ready to welcome you.
Watch the field come to life
Plan to arrive around 6:15-6:30 a.m. to watch the field come to life as pilots and crews prepare for flight.
Follow the balloons across the valley
Keep an eye on the sky and enjoy balloon sightings throughout Prosser as pilots follow the morning wind.
Watch the balloons light up the night
Experience the magic of Night Glow as colorful balloons illuminate the evening sky in one of the Rally’s most beloved traditions.
Make a weekend of it
From harvest-season traditions to local food, wine, and community events, there’s plenty to experience beyond the balloons.
Explore the experience →Your rally weekend
The core 2026 balloon events are set. Partner-event times will appear as they are confirmed.
September 25, 2026
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Downtown Prosser Weekend Activities
The Harvest Festival has shared rally weekend in prior years. The 2026 program and hours await partner confirmation.
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Friday Sunrise Launch
Watch pilots and crews prepare, inflate, and—when conditions allow—launch over the Prosser valley.
September 26, 2026
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Harvest, Market & Street Art Activities
The 2026 partner program awaits confirmation.
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Saturday Night Glow
Anchored balloons illuminate from within as their burners fire against the night sky.
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Saturday Sunrise Launch
The rally field comes alive before dawn. Launch and inflation activity depend on conditions at the field.
September 27, 2026
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Sunday Community Events
Prior rallies have shared the weekend with breakfast and downtown activities.
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Sunday Sunrise Launch
A final morning to see the rally’s pilots and crews prepare for flight, weather permitting.
Saturday Night Glow
When the burners become the stars
Return to the airport after sunset and watch the balloons light up the night during Night Glow. With music, glowing balloons, and a festive atmosphere, it’s one of the most loved moments of Rally weekend.
Weather and wind conditions permitting.
Saturday evening · Glow near dusk · Free admission
Plan for Night GlowPlan your visit
A little planning goes a long way
A few simple tips can help you make the most of your Rally experience, whether you’re joining us for sunrise launches, Night Glow, or the entire weekend.
Arrive early
Give yourself plenty of time to park, settle in, and watch the field come to life.
Dress in layers
Mornings can be cool, and temperatures can change quickly throughout the day. Dress in layers. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did!
Parking is free
Follow event signs and our friendly volunteers will help guide you where to go.
Check the weather
Launch decisions are made on-site based on weather conditions to ensure a safe experience for everyone.
Know both venues
The Prosser Airport is home to all Rally events, from the morning launches to Saturday night’s Night Glow.
The people who make flight possible
Meet the Pilots & Balloons
Lift comes from all of us
Community powered
With gratitude to the our 2026 sponsor lineup.
From the field
Every flight leaves a memory
Real moments from the supplied Great Prosser Balloon Rally archive.
Help the rally take flight.
Lend a hand, bring your organization, or help sustain a tradition that welcomes the whole valley.
Stay in the loop