The Spirit of Boise

The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic has been a Boise tradition for over 30 years. Originally created to provide an exciting, family-oriented production for the community with free admission, the Spirit of Boise is a fan favorite. The Balloon Classic has since partnered with local radio stations and is presented by CapEd Credit Union.

This annual event can be recognized as one of Boise’s final summer events, as the season begins to change and fall quickly approaches. Held this year from August 31st through September 4th, the Spirit of Boise is hosted at Ann Morrison Park. Locals and tourists fill the park to enjoy the Boise sky as it gets filled with colorful balloons. Local radio stations present inspiring music in the background as the wind carries the hot air balloons away.

The balloon launches typically begin at 7:15 a.m. and last until about 9 a.m. Can’t make it to the park? Don’t worry, usually, you can see the hot air balloons all around Downtown Boise flying high in the sky. Occasionally a balloon will land on a historic Boise landmark, including building rooftops, Broadway avenue, or in front of the Capitol building.

Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic 2024 Schedule:

1. Wednesday 8/28 - CapEd Credit Union Kids Day

   The event kicks off with Kids Day! Kid’s Day allows children the opportunity to hop aboard a tethered hot air balloon. There are also a variety of fun activities throughout the park for children to enjoy before they head to school in the morning. 

2. Thursday 8/29 - Media Day

   Everyone is welcome! Stop by to watch the first introduction day. 

3. Friday 8/30 - VIP Launch Day & Nite Glow Spectacular

   Watching countless hot air balloons take the sky calls for a camera! The event typically kicks off around 6:45 a.m., depending on the weather. And later in the day, take a seat in the evening and enjoy as the hot air balloons perform a nighttime glow show! The glow show is presented from 6 p.m. - 10 p.m.

4. Saturday 8/31 - Dawn Patrol

   Kick off an early start to your Saturday morning by watching the hot air balloons take off, starting around 6 am.

5. Sunday 9/1 - Last Dance

   On the final day of the Balloon Classic, don’t miss this once-a-year event, with balloons casting off for the last time around 6 am.

Learn More about the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic:

SPIRITOFBOISE.COM

Tips & Tricks for Visitors

• Dress for morning weather

  6:45 a.m. is early! The mornings stay cooler, so be sure to wear clothes that will keep you warm until the sun begins to rise.

• Pictures, Pictures, Pictures

  We can’t stress enough how cool this event is and how beautiful the sky is when it’s filled with hot air balloons. Grab your phone, camera, and friends!

• Bring something to sit on

  Watching from a seat on the ground is fun too! The grass can be left dewy from the night before, be sure to bring a blanket or chair to sit on.