One of Boise’s favorite traditions is returning to Ann Morrison Park this Labor Day weekend. The 35th annual Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic runs September 2–6, 2026, bringing five days of hot air balloons, morning launches, special events, and the popular Friday Nite Glow to the heart of Boise.
Planning to go? Here’s what you need to know about the 2026 Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic, including the schedule, parking changes, Nite Glow, the new Inflatable Fun Zone, and a few important tips before heading to the park.
New to Boise or moving here soon? Spirit of Boise is just one of the local traditions worth knowing about. You’ll find more annual events, local favorites, and helpful tips for getting to know the area in our Boise Relocation Guide.
Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic 2026 Schedule
Wednesday, September 2: Kid’s Day
Spirit of Boise kicks off Wednesday with Kid’s Day. Balloons will be on the field, and kids will have the opportunity to take a free tethered balloon ride, weather permitting and on a first come, first served basis.
Thursday, September 3: First Launch
The first official morning launch takes place Thursday. Balloons are expected at Ann Morrison Park around 6:45 am, with the launch scheduled for approximately 7:20 am.
Friday, September 4: Nite Glow
Friday brings one of the biggest events of the week, the Nite Glow Spectacular. Food, vendors, and live music begin at 5 pm, followed by Nite Glow.
Saturday, September 5: Morning Launch
Saturday starts early, with balloon inflation and launching beginning around 6 am and the morning flight scheduled for approximately 7:20 am.
Sunday, September 6: Final Launch
Spirit of Boise wraps up Sunday morning with Dawn Patrol, balloon inflation, and the final flight of the 2026 event.
VIEW THE OFFICIAL SPIRIT OF BOISE WEBSITE
Spirit of Boise Nite Glow 2026
Friday’s Nite Glow Spectacular is one of the most popular events of the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic.
The evening begins at 5 pm with food, vendors, and live music at Ann Morrison Park, followed by the Nite Glow Spectacular.
If Nite Glow is on your weekend plans, pay particular attention to the parking information below. Friday has different traffic and parking restrictions than the morning launch days.
New for 2026: Spirit of Boise Inflatable Fun Zone
There’s something new coming to Friday’s Nite Glow this year.
Event photos courtesy of the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic Facebook page.
The Inflatable Fun Zone will be located near the soccer fields at Ann Morrison Park and feature:
- Inflatable slides
- Obstacle courses
- Interactive games
- Trampolines
- Zip lines
- Mechanical bull
- And more
Tickets are required for the Inflatable Fun Zone.
Where Is the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic?
The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic takes place at Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho.
Because the event attracts large crowds and access to the park changes throughout the week, it’s worth planning how you’ll get there before you leave home, especially if you’re attending Friday’s Nite Glow.
Spirit of Boise Parking: What to Know for 2026
Parking inside Ann Morrison Park will be limited throughout the event from September 2–6.
During the morning launches, Ann Morrison Park will be closed to thru traffic daily from 5–10 am.
If you park outside the park, organizers ask visitors to use public parking lots and be respectful of surrounding businesses and their designated customer parking.
Friday Nite Glow Parking
Friday is the day you’ll especially want to plan ahead.
There will be no parking inside Ann Morrison Park on Friday, September 4. The park will also be closed to traffic from 10 am–10 pm for Nite Glow.
Unlike previous years, Crescent Rim will not have parking available for the Nite Glow Spectacular.
Event organizers recommend using a rideshare service or parking in a public lot or garage outside the event and walking or biking into Ann Morrison Park.
ADA-compliant parking will be available off Ann Morrison Drive.
The Ann Morrison Park dog park will remain open throughout the event. On Friday, September 4, the dog park will be open, but its parking lot will not.
What to Know Before You Go to Spirit of Boise 2026
A little planning can make your visit much easier.
- Arrive early. Morning balloon activities begin around sunrise, and popular days can draw large crowds.
- Check the weather before you leave. Hot air balloon launches are weather dependent, so scheduled launches can change based on conditions.
- Have a parking plan. Parking is limited throughout the event, with additional restrictions in place for Friday’s Nite Glow.
- Leave your dog at home during balloon operations. Balloon burners produce sounds that humans cannot hear but that can be painful to dogs’ sensitive ears when experienced up close. Event organizers recommend keeping pets at home.
- Bring something to sit on. A blanket or chairs can make those early mornings at the park much more comfortable.
- Remember that the new Inflatable Fun Zone requires tickets. The Fun Zone will be available during Friday’s Nite Glow and is separate from the other event activities.
- Because ballooning is so dependent on weather, it’s always a good idea to check the official Spirit of Boise website for the latest information before heading to the park.
Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic 2026 FAQs
What are the dates for Spirit of Boise 2026?
The 2026 Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic runs September 2–6, 2026, at Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho.
Where is the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic?
The Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic is held at Ann Morrison Park in Boise, Idaho.
What time do the balloons launch at Spirit of Boise?
Morning activities begin early. Depending on the day, balloons begin arriving or inflation starts around 6 am, with scheduled morning launches generally taking place around 7:20 am. Balloon activities and launches are weather dependent.
When is the Spirit of Boise Nite Glow in 2026?
The Spirit of Boise Nite Glow Spectacular is Friday, September 4, 2026. Food, vendors, and live music begin at 5 pm, followed by Nite Glow.
Where should I park for Spirit of Boise?
Parking inside Ann Morrison Park is limited throughout the event. There is no parking inside Ann Morrison Park on Friday, September 4, and Crescent Rim will not have parking available for Nite Glow.
Organizers recommend rideshare or parking in a public lot or garage outside the event and walking or biking into the park.
Is ADA parking available at Spirit of Boise?
Yes. ADA-compliant parking will be available off Ann Morrison Drive.
Can I bring my dog to Spirit of Boise?
Event organizers recommend leaving dogs at home during balloon operations. Balloon burners produce sounds that can be painful to dogs’ sensitive ears when experienced up close.
Are Spirit of Boise balloon launches guaranteed?
No. Hot air balloon launches are weather dependent. Conditions can affect whether balloons inflate or launch, so check for event updates before heading to Ann Morrison Park.
What’s new at Spirit of Boise in 2026?
New for 2026 is the Inflatable Fun Zone during Friday’s Nite Glow. Located near the soccer fields at Ann Morrison Park, it will feature more than 15 attractions for children and adults. Tickets are required.
Celebrating a Boise Tradition
For 35 years, the Spirit of Boise Balloon Classic has brought people together at Ann Morrison Park and filled the Boise skyline with one of the Treasure Valley’s most recognizable sights.
Whether you’re setting an early alarm for a morning launch, taking the kids to Kid’s Day, or heading downtown for Friday’s Nite Glow, it’s a Boise tradition worth experiencing.
At Templeton Real Estate Group, knowing the Treasure Valley means knowing more than its homes and neighborhoods. It means knowing the places, events, and traditions that make this such a special place to call home.
We hope this guide helps you plan your 2026 Spirit of Boise weekend. Enjoy the balloons!