Experience the 2024 Forest Park Balloon Glow & Race in St. Louis
Fall in St. Louis means crisp air, colorful leaves, and one of the most magical local events of the year — the Great Forest Park Balloon Glow & Race. This beloved tradition brings families, friends, and visitors together for a free two‑day festival centered around majestic hot air balloons illuminating the skyline at sunset. It’s a St. Louis highlight you won’t want to miss this September.
Celebrated annually in Forest Park, this event has been a must‑attend occasion for decades and draws thousands of spectators from around the region. [oai_citation:0‡Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Forest_Park_Balloon_Race?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
2024 Event Dates & Details
The 2024 Great Forest Park Balloon Glow & Race is scheduled for:
- Friday, September 19, 2024 — Balloon Glow
• Central Fields opens around 5:00 p.m.
• Balloon “glow” begins at dusk (typically around 6:45 p.m.) - Saturday, September 20, 2024 — Balloon Race
• Activities begin at 1:00 p.m.
• Balloon race flights typically start mid‑afternoon (weather dependent)
Admission to both the Balloon Glow and the Race is completely free, and public parking around Forest Park is also free (though spots fill up quickly). [oai_citation:1‡greatforestparkballoonrace.com](https://greatforestparkballoonrace.com/schedule-of-events/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
What to Expect at the Balloon Glow
The Balloon Glow is a breathtaking spectacle where dozens of hot air balloons are inflated and illuminated like giant lanterns against the evening sky. This iconic moment draws families, photographers, and skyline‑seekers alike. During the event:
- Food trucks, concessions, and midway activities open early in the evening
- Live music and entertainment set the festive tone
- The balloons “glow” in sequence, offering a dreamlike experience for all ages
- A fireworks finale caps off the night with a colorful display over Forest Park
It’s a perfect outing for a fall evening with family or friends in St. Louis. [oai_citation:2‡greatforestparkballoonrace.com](https://greatforestparkballoonrace.com/schedule-of-events/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
The Balloon Race — A St. Louis Tradition
The next day, the focus shifts to the action of the Balloon Race itself, where pilots compete in a “hare and hound” style competition. The central balloon — known as the “Hare” — launches first, and the other pilots (the “hounds”) follow. The goal is to drop a marker as close as possible to the target set by the Hare balloon. [oai_citation:3‡greatforestparkballoonrace.com](https://greatforestparkballoonrace.com/about-us/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Alongside the competitive flying, the Saturday festival includes:
- Food vendors and concessions
- Live music and local entertainment
- Family‑friendly activities such as games and inflatables
- Opportunity to meet balloon crew and pilots
Why This Event Is Perfect for St. Louis Families
Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country, offering plenty of space for picnics, walking, or simply finding the perfect viewing spot. The Balloon Glow & Race weekend makes great use of the park’s wide open fields and scenic surroundings, making it easy to spend an entire day outdoors. [oai_citation:4‡Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Forest_Park_%28St._Louis%29?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Whether you’re planning a fall picnic with the family, enjoying the live music, or capturing stunning photos of colorful balloons against the skyline, this event has something for everyone. It’s also a great way to explore more of Forest Park’s natural beauty and local charm.
Local Tips for Attending
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the Balloon Glow
- Bring blankets or folding chairs — the fields can get busy
- Check weather updates — balloon launches depend on safe wind conditions
- Plan for food and drinks on site or bring a picnic to enjoy
Make It a St. Louis Weekend
Pair your visit to the Balloon Glow & Race with other local favorites like Forest Park’s museums, the Saint Louis Zoo, or a stroll around the lakes. It’s a perfect time to make memories with loved ones and enjoy the best of what St. Louis has to offer in the fall.
Whether you’re a long‑time local or visiting from out of town, the Great Forest Park Balloon Glow & Race is one of those quintessential St. Louis experiences that captures the beauty, community spirit, and fun of the season.
