Boise and the surrounding areas have their fair share of annual events, from outdoor concerts to running marathons. And even though the COVID-19 pandemic has shuttered most of these events, one is slated to continue in September 2020: The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic.

Even though the event is set to start September 2nd, the details regarding COVID-19 precautions are still being worked out. Please visit the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic Facebook page for up-to-date information regarding these precautions.

So what is The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic?

A Hot Air Balloon Festival with a History

Even though Boise has had an annual hot air balloon launch event since at least 1974, The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic started in 1991 and featured 10 balloons in its inaugural year. Since its inception, it was a part of the Boise River Festival until the latter’s cancellation in 2002. 

And even though the event was cancelled each year from 2007 until 2009, it has always managed to attract thousands of spectators and pilots from around the world. The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic typically features live music, a variety of food vendors, and of course, balloon rides for those who want one.

In 1999, Boise School children helped design the Spirit of Boise hot air balloon, which is still in flight today.

The event is typically held in Ann Morrison Park, and up-to-date parking information for the venue can be found here.

Rules to Stay Safe at Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic 2020

The event is slated to begin September 2nd, 2020 and continue every day through September 6th, 2020.

Aside from any precautions deemed necessary by the organizers in regards to COVID-19, there are a few rules that must be followed.

Absolutely no drones are allowed by FAA regulation.

First of all, pet owners are asked to leave their pets at home when attending the festival, as the high-pitched noise that the balloon burners produce, although inaudible to humans, is in fact painful for dogs to hear.

Also, as the balloons are propelled with highly-explosive propane gas, smoking within the park is not permitted during the event.

And finally, watch your step throughout the park, as a simple misstep could punch a hole through a hot air balloon’s sensitive building material.

Who is Going to be at Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic 2020

The pilots and their respective hot air balloons are all unique and storied. You can find a current list of the balloons and their pilots here.

At this time, there is no list of vendors available given the uncertain nature of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic is a family-friendly event with multiple activities laid out around the park. In fact, the first day of the event, September 2nd, 2020, kicks off with a tutorial geared towards children that shows them the science behind hot air balloons.

So whether you choose to attend the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic 2020 in-person or from the comfort of your own home, we are all about to be treated to a sky full of colorful hot air balloons in a spectacle that’s sure to lift your spirits.