The world’s largest free hot-air balloon festival makes its return to the Rancho San Rafael Regional Park this weekend.

In 1982, just 20 hot-air balloons took flight at the Great Reno Balloon Race. Now, close to 100 balloons will lift off on September 7 – 9. Spectators are clad in pajamas, wrapped in blankets and clutching hot beverages as they gaze into the sky for the Glow Show that takes place at dawn. Shortly after, some will rise for Dawn Patrol and then the rest follow later at Mass Ascension. Skill and consistency are the keys to a victory and a piece of the $11,000 prize.

The mission of the GRBR is to provide a premier, safe and family oriented event that is visually dramatic and celebrates the joy of flight while remaining free to the

Many Nevadans get a three-day weekend to celebrate our great state, but we also get to celebrate the history behind it.

Nevada Day is October 31, but it is traditionally observed on the Friday before. The day is a celebration of when Nevada became a state during the civil war. Every year students at elementary schools across the state are taught this history and take part in dozens of activities that made Nevada what it is today – panning for gold, learning about Nevada’s original postal operations and taking part in native dances created by some of the state’s most historic tribes.

State buildings and schools will be closed on Friday, October 27, but federal buildings will remain open. The Nevada Day Parade will take place in Carson City on