Know Before You Go: Great Forest Park Balloon Race Is Sept. 18-19

This internationally renowned event welcomes 50 of the nation’s best hot air balloon pilots and thousands of spectators annually.

September 17, 2026 | 2 min reading time

The City of St. Louis is proud to partner with the Great Forest Park Balloon Race for a fun, family event held in Forest Park’s Emerson Central Fields, Sept. 18-19, 2026. This free event is one of the longest-running hot air balloon races in the United States and one of the only races that takes place in a large metropolitan area.

“Teams across the City of St. Louis, including our Parks Division and the Department of Public Safety, have been working with the Great Forest Park Balloon Race and Forest Park Forever teams throughout the year to prepare for this incredible festival that is an annual highlight for many families across our region,” said Greg Hayes, Director, Parks, Recreation, and Forestry. “Our goal is to host an enjoyable and safe event that always inspires, entertains, and brings our community together.”

For more information about the event, including the The Glow on Friday, Sept. 18 and Race Day, Sept. 19, and the and the most up-to-date schedule of events, parking information, FAQs, and any potential schedule changes, please go to The Great Forest Park Balloon Race website and follow their social media channels on Instagram and Facebook.

Things to Know Before You Go

Traffic Tips

  • East and West-bound Exit Ramps at I-64 and Hampton Ave. will be CLOSED 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm on Friday Sept. 18 AND beginning at 3:00 pm on Saturday Sept. 19.
  • Hospital Drive at Kingshighway Blvd. will be CLOSED and Steinberg Skating Rink parking lot is CLOSED for construction.
  • Clayton Avenue underpass at Kingshighway will be open to pedestrians & vehicle traffic with special event access only.
  • This Getting Around/Directions page provides maps and recommended routes.

Parking

Free parking is available on all streets not closed for the race. Parking lots within Forest Park will also be open for public parking. Please see Getting Around/Directions for parking map and street closures.

Car pooling and/or using public transportation are recommended!

Public Transportation Options

Central Fields is located just under a mile from two MetroLink stations. Eastbound passengers should exit at Forest Park-Debaliviere, walk south into the park and then east on Grand Drive. Westbound passengers should exit at Central West End, walk west on Children’s Place, cross into the park and follow westbound walking paths to Faulkner Drive.

Be sure to download Transit, the official app of Metro Transit. Purchase your Metro passes ahead of time on the Transit app, which also provides route maps, next departure times and trip planning, including a trip that combines Metro Transit with ride-sharing. 

Learn more on the Metro St. Louis site: https://www.metrostlouis.org/transit-toolbox/

Cost

There is no cost for admission into the Balloon Glow or Balloon Race. Public parking within Forest Park is also free throughout the weekend. Food, beverages, souvenirs, and certain special activities are available for purchase.

Food, Beverages, and Seating

A variety of food and beverage options will be available for purchase. You may also bring your own refreshments. No open flames or cooking appliances allowed. Soft-sided coolers and cans are preferred. 

No glass, please!

Viewing at Emerson Central Fields is best from a blanket or low-profile folding chair.

 

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Related Services

  1. Rent the Jewel Box The Jewel Box in Forest Park is available to rent for weddings, receptions and more.
  2. Rent the World's Fair Pavilion Rental information for the World's Fair Pavilion in Forest Park
  3. Apply for a Blocking Right of Way Permit Blocking Right of Way Permits are required for any activity that will block any portion of the street or sidewalk such as dumpster placement, moving truck, construction related street closures.
  4. Apply for a Special Event Permit Outlines the process to apply for a permit to hold a small or large event in the City of St. Louis, such as a Street Fair, Outdoor Concert, Parade, Run and/or Walk, Cycling Race, or Ride.
  5. Reserve a Wagon for Urban Hayrides in Forest Park The City of St. Louis Department of Parks, Recreation and Forestry offers hayrides in Forest Park on Friday and Saturday nights on fall weekends.

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