09/02/2026
Spirit of Boise is THIS WEEK 🎈 Most posts tell you when it’s happening, but not how to actually plan for it.
So here’s the local guide I’d send a friend before convincing them to wake up before sunrise with me.
📍 Ann Morrison Park
Thurs 9/3: Balloons arrive ~6:30 AM, launch ~7:20 AM
Fri 9/4: Morning flight ~7:20 AM + Nite Glow
Sat 9/5: Inflation ~6 AM, flight ~7:20 AM
Sun 9/6: Grand finale! Field activity ~5:30 AM, Dawn Patrol ~6 AM, final flight ~7:20 AM
WHEN TO ARRIVE:
Thurs + Fri, aim for 6:15–6:30 AM. Sat + Sun, aim closer to 5:45 AM if you want to watch inflation. If you’re only picking one morning, I’d choose Sunday!
PARKING:
Parking inside Ann Morrison is limited, so plan to park outside the event and walk/bike in or rideshare. For Friday Nite Glow, there is NO parking inside Ann Morrison or on Crescent Rim.
WHAT TO BRING:
The grass gets WET. Wear layers + shoes you don’t mind getting damp. Bring a lawn chair or weatherproof blanket, water, snacks and maybe a pillow if you want to get comfy.
☕️ 5 AM COFFEE:
Dutch Bros on Vista, Broadway + Orchard. Black Rock Broadway opens at 5 AM Thurs/Fri and 6 AM weekends.
NOT A MORNING PERSON?
Friday Nite Glow activities start at 4 PM. The balloons stay anchored and light their burners after dark, so expect a glow, not a launch!
LOCAL TIP:
Try the Boise Depot for a different view. Depending on the wind, you can catch balloons over the Boise skyline with views toward downtown + the Capitol. Not guaranteed, but when it works, it is SUCH a Boise moment.
Check the weather before you leave. Balloon flights are weather dependent.
Save this for the weekend + send it to your balloon buddy.
I’m Emily, a Boise Realtor who loves sharing the little things that make living here feel like home. 🤍 Follow for more helpful Boise guides + local favorites.