Book a Hot Air Balloon Ride Durning The Weekend Of The Great Prosser Balloon Rally
The Great Prosser Balloon Rally is one of Washington State’s most iconic and beloved annual events. Set against the scenic backdrop of the Yakima Valley, this three-day festival has been attracting thousands of visitors from across the Pacific Northwest for over three decades. Every year, colorful hot air balloons fill the skies, offering a magical experience for both spectators and participants. The festival features daily sunrise launches, a captivating Night Glow, and plenty of family-friendly activities. But in 2024, for the first time ever, visitors were given the opportunity to not just watch the balloons soar overhead, but to actually book a hot air balloon ride and experience the wonder for themselves.
The History of the Great Prosser Balloon Rally
Since its inception in 1991, The Great Prosser Balloon Rally has been a community-focused event, with hot air balloon pilots launching from the Prosser Airport. However, flights were historically reserved for friends, family, and event sponsors, meaning the general public had to be content with watching from the ground.
That changed in 2024, when Seattle Ballooning, a leading commercial balloon company, responded to public demand on social media. The call was clear: “We want to fly!” And so, Seattle Ballooning brought its expertise and four beautiful hot air balloons to offer paid flights during the rally weekend. For the first time in the festival’s history, regular festival-goers could book a hot air balloon ride and take to the skies.
“Seeing hot air balloons launch is one thing. Flying in a balloon is an incredible experience,” said Eliav Cohen, owner of Seattle Ballooning. “Flying in a balloon shouldn’t be limited to just businesses that sponsor the event.”
Seattle Ballooning’s Commercial Flights and Public Demand
Despite reaching out to the official Prosser balloon festival organizers for the last few years, Seattle Ballooning was told that commercial balloons would not be allowed to launch from the festival grounds at Prosser Airport. This decision meant that while Seattle Ballooning could not be officially part of the festival, they were undeterred.
Instead, Seattle Ballooning got permission to launch from another part of the airport, and also set up a few launch sites just a mile away, providing the public with an opportunity to enjoy a hot air balloon ride while still being immersed in the excitement of the rally. “Flying with us feels like you’re part of the festival,” says Cohen. In fact, with 25% of the balloons in the sky now being commercial flights or balloons launching off the festival field, passengers who book with Seattle Ballooning can still enjoy the incredible experience of flying among the festival balloons.
Seattle Ballooning has also expressed that they are always open to working with the The Great Prosser Balloon Rally festival in the future. “We’d love to participate in the balloon glow or any other festival events to support the community,” Cohen added. But for now, their independent FAA commercial ballooning operation continues to support the community and offer an unmatched aerial experience to visitors.
What to Expect from a Hot Air Balloon Ride with Seattle Ballooning
Booking a hot air balloon ride with Seattle Ballooning during The weekend of the Great Prosser Balloon Festival is an adventure like no other. These commercial flights are led by experienced pilots who fly daily, offering an hour-long journey that takes you high above the Yakima River, vineyards, and scenic valley below. While festival pilots focus on providing a fun show for the crowd, commercial balloon pilots like those at Seattle Ballooning create a fully immersive experience. By using both low and high altitude winds, they ensure that each flight gives passengers a diverse view of the landscape.
During the rally weekend, Seattle Ballooning’s flights tend to sell out quickly, particularly for the highly coveted Saturday and Sunday slots. In 2025, they will bring six to eight balloons, offering flights to over 180+ guests throughout the three-day event. To ensure you don’t miss out, it’s important to book your ride well in advance.
How to Book Your Hot Air Balloon Ride
Tickets for a hot air balloon ride with Seattle Ballooning during The weekend of the Great Prosser Balloon Festival are available on their website. Due to the high demand and limited availability, early booking is highly recommended. Unlike some other activities, there are no discounts available, as these flights are always in high demand and sell out quickly.
Each flight lasts about an hour, with passengers enjoying a peaceful journey through the skies above Prosser. The skilled pilots make use of varying wind conditions to guide the balloon, ensuring every ride is as memorable as possible.
In addition to the Great Prosser Balloon Rally, there are two other hot air balloon festivals in Washington State where guests can book a ride and be part of the festival experience. The Winthrop Balloon Festival takes place in Winthrop, WA the first weekend in March, offering spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and the Methow Valley. The Walla Walla Balloon Stampede happens over Mother’s Day Weekend in Walla Walla, Washington, providing guests with a chance to float above vineyards and enjoy the springtime beauty of this wine-rich region. Both festivals offer the opportunity to book commercial rides, adding to the excitement of these beloved Washington State ballooning events.
Seattle Ballooning’s Impact on Prosser’s Economy
While not officially part of the Great Prosser Balloon Rally, Seattle Ballooning has had a tremendous impact on the local economy. By bringing hundreds of tourists to Prosser during the rally, they’ve helped generate an estimated $300,000 in additional revenue for local businesses.
“The weekend of the Great Prosser Balloon Rally is huge for local businesses,” Cohen noted. “We’ve heard from restaurant owners and hotels that it’s one of their busiest weekends of the entire year.”
This influx of tourists benefits the entire town, ensuring that Prosser continues to thrive as a premier destination for hot air balloon enthusiasts and festival-goers alike.
Make Your Festival Experience Unforgettable
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time attendee, booking a hot air balloon ride with Seattle Ballooning is the ultimate way to enhance your experience at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally. As you float above the beautiful landscape, you’ll gain a whole new perspective on the magic of the festival.
So, what are you waiting for? Head over to Seattle Ballooning’s Prosser Balloon Festival page and book your ride today to ensure you don’t miss out on the opportunity to fly during the 2025 Great Prosser Balloon Rally. With limited spots and high demand, securing your ticket early is the best way to guarantee an unforgettable adventure in the skies.
Book Now: Reserve your spot for a hot air balloon ride at the 2025 Great Prosser Balloon Rally before tickets sell out!
