5There are many types of hot air balloon events held across the country, and internationally as well. We are very fortunate to be able to host the Hot Air Balloon Shoot-Out. This year will be the 15th annual competitive event. The event will begin the evening of June 5th and conclude the morning of June 7th.

We will be hosting 15 hot air balloon pilots as we come together to celebrate what is great about ballooning.  This group of visitors are a tight knit community that have welcomed many Carson City residents into their 'family' as crew members as well as future pilots. We extend a very warm welcome to our visitors and are looking forward to making more memories.

The evening balloon flights will launch from the centrally located site behind Carson City-Crystal High School. The morning flights will be held in the early hours on Saturday and Sunday. All of our pilots will meet for a weather and safety briefing, and then set off for launch sites throughout the surrounding area.  Planning is critical for these flights. These are normally multiple task flights as they fly from target to target dropping a baggie in hopes of being the closest to target. It is amazing to watch the pilots maneuver their balloon toward the target.

Points are awarded to pilots according to how close a pilot's 'baggie' lands near the center of the 'X'. It is very important to remember that as spectators, everyone must stay at least 500 feet away from each target. Safety of our participants is extremely important.

Bring your lawn chair and/or blanket to enjoy the view of the beautiful balloons as they take flight. Come on out to watch the launches and glows, children young and old are certain to have a WONDERFUL time! As always, we will have a DJ and an announcer to make your experience fun and exciting.