Great Prosser Balloon Rally: Best Spots To View The Hot Air Balloon
The Great Prosser Balloon Rally is one of the most anticipated annual events in Washington, drawing visitors from all over to witness the stunning sight of hot air balloons soaring over the beautiful Prosser landscape. With its combination of early sunrise launches, colorful balloons, and community events, this festival is a highlight for locals and visitors alike. Finding the best viewing spots is key to fully enjoying the spectacle, whether you prefer to be close to the action at the Prosser Washington Airport or take in the view from scenic overlooks. Below are some of the top spots to ensure you get the best view of the inflated balloons and all the fun that comes with the festival.
Hop Aboard A Hot Air Balloon Or Helicopter During The Great Prosser Balloon Rally
For the ultimate viewing experience, nothing beats seeing the rally from the sky itself. Booking a ride with Seattle Ballooning gives you the rare opportunity to view the event from inside a balloon. As you soar alongside the other balloons in flight, you’ll have the best possible view of the festival below. These balloon rides typically last around 60 minutes, giving you plenty of time to soak in the breathtaking scenery. In addition to balloon rides, visitors can also take a short helicopter ride, which lasts 3-5 minutes and departs from the Prosser Washington Airport. These helicopter tours offer a unique perspective of the balloons from above, adding to the thrill of the festival. Whether you’re floating gently in a hot air balloon or zooming across the sky in a helicopter, both experiences provide unmatched views of the Great Prosser Balloon Rally.
Prosser Washington Airport (Primary Launch Field For The Great Prosser Balloon Rally)
The Prosser Washington Airport is the heart of the Great Prosser Balloon Rally, and it offers the closest view of the balloon launch process. This is the best spot to watch the morning launch as the balloon crews and hot air balloon pilots prepare their balloons at dawn. The experience of watching the balloons inflate, with colors and designs gradually taking shape, is unforgettable. Being at the airport not only allows you to watch the beautiful balloons up close but also provides the opportunity to interact with the balloon crews. You can observe the pilots in action as they check their equipment and ready themselves for liftoff. For early risers, arriving by 6:15 a.m. is ideal to catch the magical moment of the morning at sunrise. There is also plenty of parking at the airport, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot. Additionally, being near the primary launch field gives you access to other nearby activities, like the Caren Mercer-Andreasen Street Painting Festival. Want to check out the Ultimate Guide to the Prosser Balloon Festival? Enjoy.
Nunn Road Scenic Area
For a quieter, more scenic viewing experience, Nunn Road is a perfect option. This location, not far from the Prosser Airport, offers wide-open views of the balloons in flight as they rise above the rolling hills and farmland of Prosser. The balloons look majestic against the backdrop of rural Washington, providing a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. This spot is great for those looking to capture stunning photos of the array of balloons against the natural landscape. It’s also a bit more relaxed compared to the busier areas near the launch field, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a serene balloon-watching experience. Nunn Road also offers plenty of parking spaces, making it a convenient option for visitors.
Yakima River Bank or Aboard a Kayak
One of the most unique vantage points for watching the hot air balloons is from the banks of the Yakima River. This location offers the added bonus of seeing the balloons reflect in the water as they drift overhead. If you’re a photographer or simply looking for a picturesque view, this is the spot to be. The reflections in the river provide a one-of-a-kind perspective that enhances the beauty of the festival. For those feeling adventurous, bringing a kayak allows you to get out on the water and experience the rally from the river itself. Just be mindful to keep a safe distance to leave room for the balloons to perform their famous “splash and dash” landing, where they briefly touch down on the water before taking off again. Landing spots along the Yakima River offer a unique opportunity to see the balloons up close from a different perspective.
Art Fiker Stadium
If you’re planning to attend the evening night glow event, Art Fiker Stadium is the ideal viewing location. During this event, tethered balloons illuminate the dark sky with a radiant glow, creating a mesmerizing experience for all who attend. The stadium offers plenty of seating and is perfect for families who want a comfortable vantage point. The stadium, located near Prosser High School, also makes it easy to access other parts of the festival, including food trucks and entertainment areas. Watching the balloons glow in sync with the music and the murmurs of the crowd is one of the highlights of the festival. Art Fiker Stadium also provides good parking availability, making it easy to attend this evening event. The stadium’s football fields offer wide-open views of the glowing balloons, creating an awe-inspiring experience.
Caren Mercer-Andreasen Street Painting Festival
Area Another fantastic spot to watch the balloons while enjoying some local culture is the Caren Mercer-Andreasen Street Painting Festival area. Located within walking distance of the launch field, this part of town combines the colorful overhead balloons in flight with the vibrant chalk art being created by local artists on the streets below. This is a great location for families, offering a mix of artistic performances and balloon watching. You can stroll around, check out the street paintings, and glance up to catch the balloons drifting across the sky. The street painting festival adds an artistic flair to the rally, making it one of Prosser’s largest 3-day festivals.
Scenic Overlook Areas (Wineries and Hillsides)
Prosser is located in the heart of Washington’s wine country, making the area around the rally full of scenic wineries and hillsides that offer excellent panoramic views. Many local wineries, such as those along Wine Country Road, provide the perfect blend of wine tasting and balloon watching, offering a relaxed and luxurious way to enjoy the rally. From these elevated spots, you can enjoy a glass of wine while watching the diversity of balloons floating over the valley. It’s a perfect option for visitors looking to combine the excitement of the festival with the tranquility of Prosser’s wine country. Afterward, you can even partake in a night wine tasting to round out your day of balloon viewing.
Wine Country Road Bridge
A hidden gem for balloon watching is the Wine Country Road Bridge in Prosser. Many of the hot air balloons fly right over this bridge during the rally, offering a fantastic vantage point without the crowds. The view from the bridge gives you an excellent opportunity to see the balloons pass overhead at a close distance. It’s also a great spot for taking photos and enjoying the peaceful sight of the balloons gliding above the river.
No matter where you choose to watch the Great Prosser Balloon Rally, each location offers its own unique experience. Whether you’re up close at the Prosser Airport, soaking in the reflections at the Yakima River, or enjoying the peaceful scene from Nunn Road, the rally is an unforgettable event. For those looking for a truly spectacular experience, a hot air balloon ride, helicopter ride, or viewing from the Wine Country Road Bridge are excellent ways to take in the sights of this beloved festival. Make sure to arrive early, bring your camera, and find your perfect spot to witness the magic of the hot air balloons at this celebrated event.
FAQs About Viewing Hot Air Balloons During The Great Prosser Balloon Rally
What is the best time to view the balloons at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
The best time to view the balloons at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally is during the sunrise launches, which typically start around 6:30 a.m. Arriving early ensures you get a prime spot to see the balloons being inflated and launching into the morning sky.
Are there any night events at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
Yes, the Great Prosser Balloon Rally features a Night Glow event, where tethered hot air balloons light up the night sky with glowing colors. This event usually takes place in the evening at Art Fiker Stadium and is a favorite for families and photographers alike.
Where can I park for the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
Parking is available at the Prosser Washington Airport, where the primary balloon launches occur. There’s also parking near Art Fiker Stadium for the Night Glow event and around other viewing locations such as Nunn Road. Arriving early ensures you get plenty of parking spaces at the main event areas.
What are the best spots to view the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
The top viewing spots for the Great Prosser Balloon Rally include the Prosser Washington Airport (primary launch field), the Yakima River Bank for scenic reflections, and Nunn Road for a quieter, scenic view. If you’re looking for an evening view, Art Fiker Stadium during the Night Glow event is ideal.
Is there food available during the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
Yes, there are food trucks and vendors available during the Great Prosser Balloon Rally, particularly at the Prosser Washington Airport and Art Fiker Stadium during the Night Glow event. You can also explore local café-style food and restaurants in downtown Prosser for a full experience of the event weekend.
What is the best location for photography at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
For the best photos at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally, try the Yakima River Bank to capture the balloons reflected on the water or the Wine Country Road Bridge, where many balloons fly directly overhead. The Prosser Washington Airport offers close-up shots of balloons being inflated and launching, while Art Fiker Stadium is perfect for photographing the glowing balloons during the Night Glow event.
Are there activities for children at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
The Great Prosser Balloon Rally is a family-friendly event. In addition to the balloon launches, kids can enjoy the Caren Mercer-Andreasen Street Painting Festival, where they can watch local artists create street murals. The Night Glow event at Art Fiker Stadium is also a favorite for children, with colorful, glowing balloons lighting up the night.
How close can spectators get to the balloons at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
Spectators at the Great Prosser Balloon Rally can get very close to the balloons during the inflation and launch process at the Prosser Washington Airport. Many balloon crews interact with the public, allowing for a more intimate experience. However, safety barriers are in place to ensure a safe viewing distance.
Is there a fee for attending the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
No, the Great Prosser Balloon Rally is a free, family-friendly event. However, some activities, such as purchasing food or participating in local experiences, may have a cost. Parking availability is also free, but it’s recommended to arrive early for prime spots.
Can I take a hot air balloon ride during the Great Prosser Balloon Rally?
Yes, while the Great Prosser Balloon Rally itself does not offer public rides, nearby companies like Seattle Ballooning provide commercial hot air balloon rides during the event. These rides give you the chance to experience the magic of ballooning firsthand, with flights lasting around 60 minutes, providing a unique view of the festival and Prosser’s beautiful landscape.
How Did The Great Prosser Balloon Rally Start?
The Great Prosser Balloon Rally started in 1991 after Ted Wirch took a flight over Prosser Washington. Want to see some more history? Here is a full blog post on the history of The Great Prosser Balloon Festival.
