Balloon Race Scholarship Committee identifier with balloon graphicOur high-flying history

Founded in 1986, the Balloon Race Scholarship Committee is a volunteer-powered unit at the University of Nevada, Reno that supports undergraduate and graduate students through annual scholarship awards. Our dedicated team of volunteers sells raffle tickets, commemorative pins and Sparks Florist's 12 Months of Flowers cards to raise money for each year's subsequent scholarships. In recent years, the commemorative pins have been designed by graphic design students at AACT High School.

Every year on the Wednesday before the Great Reno Balloon Race begins, our committee hosts a raffle of over 100 items donated by local businesses and other partners. The committee donates six balloon rides in the University’s sponsored balloon as part of the drawing.

Order commemorative pins or raffle tickets

Find us at the Great Reno Balloon Race

The Great Reno Balloon Race is the largest free hot-air ballooning event in the world. During three days in early September, you can look up into the Reno skies and see a rainbow of hot air balloons soaring about. On September 5-7, come by the University's tent to say hello and take the opportunity to purchase a commemorative pin (designs from previous years are also up for sale). We look forward to seeing you!

Learn more about the Great Reno Balloon Race