Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

Is the Great Prosser Balloon Rally a family-friendly event?

Yes! The Great Prosser Balloon Rally is a free, family-friendly event designed for all ages. Whether you’re watching the balloons launch, exploring the activities, or simply enjoying time together, there’s something for everyone to experience.

Do I need a ticket?

No tickets required! The Great Prosser Balloon Rally is free to attend, including parking, so bring your family and friends and enjoy the weekend.

Where do the Great Prosser Balloon Rally events take place?

Sunrise balloon launches and the Saturday Night Glow are held at Prosser Airport. Additional activities, including Prosser’s Harvest Festival, take place throughout downtown Prosser all weekend.

Is there a shuttle bus for Night Glow this year?

Yes! Ben Franklin Transit will provide complimentary shuttle service for Night Glow on Saturday from 5:30 – 8:30 PM. For the latest shuttle routes, pick-up locations, and schedule information, please visit bft.org.

How can I become a volunteer?

Want a hands-on experience? Volunteer and be part of the adventure!

How can I become a sponsor?

The Great Prosser Balloon Rally wouldn’t be possible without the support of our generous sponsors and community partners. We’d love to partner with you. Visit our Sponsorship page to learn more about sponsorship opportunities.

Planning Your Visit

Is there parking available?

Yes. Parking at Prosser Airport is free, but spaces are limited, so arriving early is recommended.

What time do I need to be there in the morning?

We recommend arriving at the Prosser Airport by 6:15 am. to allow time for parking, getting settled, and enjoying the excitement as pilots and crews prepare for flight. Balloons typically launch around sunrise, weather permitting.

What should I bring?

Be prepared for a chilly morning by dressing in layers and wearing comfortable shoes. Don’t forget your camera to capture the balloons, and if you’re attending the Night Glow, bring a chair or blanket for a comfortable viewing experience.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets are welcome, but please keep in mind that balloon burners can be very loud and crowds can be overwhelming for some animals. For their comfort and safety, we recommend leaving pets at home when possible. Service animals are always welcome.

Where should I stay?

Prosser offers a variety of lodging options, including hotels, vacation rentals, RV parks, and nearby camping opportunities. For current accommodations and availability, visit the Tour Prosser Where to Stay page. We recommend booking early, as the Great Prosser Balloon Rally weekend is one of the busiest weekends of the year.

Where can I eat while I'm in town?

Prosser is home to a variety of restaurants, coffee shops, wineries, breweries, and tasting rooms. Whether you’re looking for breakfast before a morning launch or dinner after the Night Glow, you’ll find plenty of options throughout town. Visit the Tour Prosser Where to Eat page for local dining options.

Can I bring alcohol to the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?

No! Beer, wine, liquor, and all other alcoholic beverages are strictly prohibited at all Great Prosser Balloon Rally events.

Balloon Launches & Events

Will the balloons launch every morning?

Not necessarily. Balloon launches depend on weather conditions, and safety always comes first. Wind, visibility, and other factors are evaluated each morning before any launch decisions are made.

Why don't the balloons fly all day?

Hot air balloons can fly anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour and a half. Hot air balloons require a difference in temperature, with hot air on the inside and cool air on the outside, to achieve lift. This is easier to do in the early morning hours when outside temperatures are generally cooler.

Where do the balloons land?

That’s part of the adventure! Because balloons travel with the wind, no two flights are exactly the same. Pilots land wherever conditions allow for a safe landing, often in fields and open spaces around Prosser.

Where can I purchase Great Prosser Balloon Rally merchandise?

Official Great Prosser Balloon Rally merchandise will be available throughout the weekend at Prosser Airport and downtown during Prosser’s Harvest Festival.

Night Glow

What is Night Glow?

The Night Glow transforms the Prosser Airport into a spectacular display of color and light. Balloons inflate and remain tethered to the ground while pilots ignite their burners in choreographed bursts, creating a dazzling show synchronized to music.

Where is Night Glow being held this year?

NEW for 2026: Night Glow will take place at the Prosser Airport.

When does the Night Glow start?

The Night Glow begins shortly after sunset on Saturday evening. Arriving early is recommended to enjoy pre-event activities and secure a good viewing spot.

Will there be live entertainment?

Yes! The talented young performers of the Bram Brata Steel Drum Band will performance live from 6:00 – 7:00 PM.

Will there be activities for children?

Yes! The Kids Zone will be open from 6:00 – 7:30 PM and feature a variety of fun, family-friendly activities for children of all ages.

Can I purchase Great Prosser Balloon Rally merchandise at Night Glow?

Yes! Official Great Prosser Balloon Rally merchandise and souvenirs will be available at the Memorabilia Tent.

Will there be a Night Glow shuttle bus this year?

Yes! Ben Franklin Transit is providing complimentary shuttle service for Night Glow attendees on Saturday from 5:30 – 8:30 PM. For the latest shuttle routes, pick-up locations, and schedule information, please visit bft.org.

Is parking available at the airport?

Limited on-site parking is available. Guests are encouraged to take advantage of the free shuttle service to and from the Prosser Airport whenever possible to help reduce traffic and parking congestion.

Balloon Rides

Can I buy a balloon ride at the rally?

No! The Great Prosser Balloon Rally does not sell balloon rides. However, one lucky visitor will have the opportunity to win a ride during the Sunday morning launch (weather permitting) through a raffle drawing held at the Saturday Night Glow.

How can I get a balloon ride?

Feeling lucky? Purchase a raffle ticket for a chance to win a ride during the Sunday morning launch (weather permitting). If you’d like to experience a balloon flight at another time, several local pilots offer paid rides throughout the year.

Spectator Information

Can I walk on the field?

Yes! Guests are welcome on the launch field to watch balloon crews prepare and experience the excitement up close. Please note that the field is part of a working airfield and may have rough or uneven terrain in some areas.

Can I watch from the river?

Yes! Balloons often fly to or near the Yakima River, making it a great place to watch. If you’re along the river, please stay close to the banks and leave plenty of space for pilots who may attempt a splash and dash, a maneuver where a balloon briefly touches the water before continuing its flight.

Can I help with the balloons?

We appreciate your enthusiasm! For safety reasons, please only assist with a balloon if a pilot or crew member asks for help. Want a hands-on experience? Volunteer to crew and be part of the adventure.

Can I take photos of the balloons?

Absolutely! The balloons make for incredible photos, and we love seeing the Great Prosser Balloon Rally through your lens. Just remember to follow safety guidelines, respect the balloons and equipment, and avoid using flash or bright lights during morning launch activities.

How do I submit a photo for the photo contest?

We’d love to see your rally photos! Keep an eye on the Great Prosser Balloon Rally Facebook page for contest rules, deadlines, and submission details.