Before the sun came up Friday morning, the Great Reno Balloon Race was already getting underway. Reno Public Radio’s Alexandra Mosher was there and has the story.
Cuddled in blankets and lawn chairs on the fields of Rancho San Rafael Park, spectators were up before dawn awaiting the event’s infamous Super Glow Show.
For some, this was their first time watching the hot air balloons use their flames to light up the dark Reno skyline.
Macy Kearney recently moved from Las Vegas to attend the University of Nevada, Reno and she says her favorite moment was watching the balloons glow in synchronization to the tune of a banjo.
"Ever since I was a little kid, I always thought that hot air balloons were really cool, and my grandma went up in one on her 80th birthday, so for me to come and actually see one in person is really neat."
Kelsey Rivara, a crew member for the hot air balloon, Zollie, has been around hot air balloons since she was 4 years old.
"Once all the balloons start inflating, you see everyone's eyes and smiles begin, and it's just a magical, peaceful time in the morning with 100 balloons in the air."
For those who missed this morning’s events, The Great Reno Balloon Race will be continuing over the weekend.