Navigating The Great Forest Park Balloon Race

Introduction

The Great Forest Park Balloon Race (GFPBR), a beloved St. Louis tradition since 1973, returns to Emerson Central Fields in Forest Park on Friday, September 19, and Saturday, September 20, 2025. As one of the longest-running hot air balloon races in the United States and the only one held in a major metropolitan city, the event draws nearly 150,000 spectators for two days of vibrant festivities, including the Balloon Glow and the Hare and Hound-style race. Forest Park, ranked #3 among U.S. city parks in the 2025 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, enhances the event’s allure, with the nearby Variety Wonderland Playground earning a #4 spot among the nation’s best public playgrounds in the same awards, announced on April 16, 2025. This free, family-friendly event, presented by PNC Bank, offers a unique blend of spectacle, community, and outdoor fun.

At healthcare10.website, our mission is to empower individuals with evidence-based health and wellness content, covering nutrition, fitness, mental health, and lifestyle. We recognize that community events like the GFPBR and accessible spaces like the Variety Wonderland Playground promote physical activity, social connection, and emotional well-being—key components of holistic health. This guide provides practical tips for navigating the 2025 Great Forest Park Balloon Race, highlights Forest Park’s generational appeal, and supports our pursuit of Mediavine membership through the Grow by Mediavine platform, ensuring transparency and engagement for our audience.

Overview of the Great Forest Park Balloon Race 2025

Event Details

The GFPBR, celebrating its 53rd year, is a free event held at Emerson Central Fields in Forest Park, St. Louis, Missouri. The 2024 event saw record-breaking attendance of nearly 150,000, and 2025 promises similar excitement with over 50 hot air balloons piloted by some of the nation’s best. The event spans two days:

• Friday, September 19: Balloon Glow
  • 5:00 p.m.: Emerson Central Fields opens with food trucks, concessions, and St. Charles Nissan & Hyundai Family Picnic Areas.
  • 7:00 p.m.: Balloon Glow begins (approximately at dusk), with tethered balloons illuminating the field like giant fireflies. Spectators can walk among the balloons (weather permitting) to chat with pilots and crews.
  • 9:00 p.m.: U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team performs, followed by PNC Bank Fireworks at 9:15 p.m.
• Saturday, September 20: Balloon Race
  • 1:00 p.m.: Central Fields opens with the WASH U Main Stage featuring DJ Reggie, WASH U Acapella Groups, and the Pazazz Performers from the St. Louis Academy of Dance. The Purina Children’s Entertainment Area offers inflatables, the Purina Pro Plan Performance Team (shows at 1:15 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.), and activities from St. Louis Children’s Hospital.
  • 3:00 p.m.: U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team performs, kicking off opening ceremonies at 3:30 p.m.
  • 4:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m.: Hare and Hound-style race begins (weather dependent), with the PNC Bank “Bank on It” balloon launching first as the “Hare,” followed by “Hound” balloons aiming to drop bean bags near the Hare’s landing “X” target.

The race is not speed-based but focuses on accuracy, with the 2024 winner, Joe Nusrala (Quarry Wines banner), landing 97 feet from the target. Real-time updates on wind direction, flight paths, and winners will be posted on the GFPBR’s social media (@GFPBalloonRace on Twitter/X, @GFPBR on Instagram).

Forest Park Context

Forest Park, a 1,300-acre urban gem, hosts the GFPBR in its Central Fields, a flat, grassy area ideal for balloon launches. The park’s #3 national ranking reflects its cultural and recreational offerings, including five free institutions: the Saint Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, Saint Louis Science Center, Saint Louis Zoo, and The Muny. The Variety Wonderland Playground, located near the Dennis & Judith Jones Visitor and Education Center, enhances the park’s family appeal with its #4 ranking for its accessible design, fostering inclusive play for children of all abilities.

Navigating the Great Forest Park Balloon Race: Practical Tips

Navigating an event with 150,000 attendees requires planning, especially given Forest Park’s road closures, limited parking, and natural terrain. Below are updated tips for 2025, adapted from Forest Park Forever’s 2024 guide and other sources, to ensure a seamless experience.

1. Transportation and Parking

Driving and Parking:

• Free Parking: Public lot and street parking within Forest Park is free, but spots are limited, especially during peak hours. Arrive early (before 5:00 p.m. on Friday or 1:00 p.m. on Saturday) to secure a spot.
• Recommended Parking: The Festival & Parking Plaza (Upper Muny Lot) is the closest public lot to Central Fields. Enter via Summit Drive; the north side at Union Drive is exit-only to manage traffic flow. Explore Hidden Creek Savanna en route for a scenic walk.
• Accessible Parking: A new ADA parking area near McKinley & Wells Drive, by the Jewel Box, is available for those with state-issued ADA tags or plates, offering proximity to the BJC Accessible Viewing Area supported by the Starkloff Disability Institute.
• Road Closures (Friday, 6:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m.):
  • East and westbound exit ramps at I-64 and Hampton Ave. are closed.
  • Hampton Ave. is closed.
  • Hospital Drive at Kingshighway prohibits left turns northbound to reduce congestion.
  • Grand Drive ends at Union Blvd due to Lafayette Bridge construction.
• Saturday Closures: Similar restrictions may apply; check greatforestparkballoonrace.com for updates closer to the event.

Public Transit (MetroLink):

• Central Fields is under a mile from two MetroLink stations:
  • Eastbound: Exit at Forest Park-DeBaliviere, walk south into the park, then east on Grand Drive.
  • Westbound: Exit at Central West End, walk west on Children’s Place, cross into the park, and follow westbound paths to Faulkner Drive (not Jefferson Drive, as some maps may indicate).
• Download the Transit app for route maps, next departure times, and trip planning, including ride-sharing integration. Purchase Metro passes in advance to save time.

Biking:

• Biking is a traffic-free option, with bike racks available along the route to Central Fields. Forest Park’s 7.5-mile Dual Path system makes cycling accessible, promoting physical activity.

Ridesharing:

• Use Uber or Lyft to avoid parking hassles, dropping off at designated entry points like DeBaliviere Ave., Union and Lindell, Kingshighway and West Pine, or Lagoon and Skinker. Combine with MetroLink for cost efficiency.

Terrain Note: The natural terrain at Central Fields can be uneven, posing challenges for those with mobility issues. Wear sturdy shoes and use the ADA parking and viewing areas for accessibility.

2. What to Bring

• Seating: Bring chairs or a picnic blanket for comfort. On Glow night, opt for a blanket to wander freely among balloons. On Race Day, establish a base camp but leave one person to watch belongings if exploring.
• Food and Drinks: Pack a cooler with snacks, drinks, or a full picnic (soft-sided coolers, cans only; no glass, grills, or open flames). Adult beverages in cans or boxes are permitted. Food trucks and concessions (e.g., funnel cakes, meat on a stick) are available but pricey, so budget-conscious families can save by packing essentials.
• Sun Protection: Race Day’s open field lacks shade, so bring sunblock, hats, or umbrellas.
• Lighting for Glow: By 9:00 p.m., the field darkens. Bring a flashlight to navigate back to your car, especially if taking shortcuts off sidewalks.
• Souvenirs: Vendors sell glowing toys and blinky items, popular with kids. Save money by purchasing glow sticks or trinkets at a dollar store beforehand.
• Stroller/Wagon: Bring a stroller or wagon for toddlers to haul gear, even if they don’t need it for mobility, easing the load across Central Fields.
• No Drones: Only three FAA-approved drone pilots are permitted. Leave personal drones at home to comply with regulations.

3. Event Highlights and Planning

Friday: Balloon Glow:

• Arrive by 5:00 p.m. to enjoy food trucks, live music, and the St. Charles Nissan & Hyundai Family Picnic Areas. The Glow starts at dusk (around 7:00 p.m.), with balloons tethered and illuminated. Weather permitting, the rope line opens for spectators to walk among balloons, offering photo ops and pilot interactions.
• The U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team performs at 9:00 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9:15 p.m., wrapping up the evening. Plan to stay until 10:00 p.m. for the full experience, but expect heavy exiting traffic.

Saturday: Balloon Race:

• Arrive by 1:00 p.m. for the carnival atmosphere, including the Purina Children’s Entertainment Area, WASH U Main Stage performances, and midway activities (inflatables, cornhole, St. Louis Children’s Hospital games). The Golden Knights perform at 3:00 p.m., with the race launching between 4:30 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., weather dependent.
• The Hare and Hound race involves the PNC Bank “Hare” balloon launching first, landing to mark an “X,” and “Hound” balloons aiming to drop bean bags nearby. Wind direction determines landing sites, sometimes across the St. Louis metro area, adding an element of adventure. Follow @GFPBalloonRace for real-time updates.
• Stay until 6:30 p.m. to watch the launch and enjoy the midway, but note that balloons may not return to Central Fields, so plan to depart after the launch if focusing on the race.

Weather Considerations:

• High winds can delay or cancel balloon inflation (Glow) or ascension (Race). Pilots make individual launch decisions, prioritizing safety. The event has only been canceled twice since 1973 due to rain, but check greatforestparkballoonrace.com or @GFPBR for updates. Dress for variable September weather (cool evenings, warm days).

Accessibility:

• The BJC Accessible Viewing Area, supported by the Starkloff Disability Institute, offers prime viewing for those with mobility challenges, near the ADA parking lot. Service animals and leashed pets are welcome.

4. Family-Friendly Tips

• Kids’ Activities: The Purina Children’s Entertainment Area (open Saturday, 1:00 p.m.) includes the Purina Pro Plan Performance Team, inflatables, and PNC Bank Mobile Learning Adventure. Plan visits around performance times (1:15 p.m., 2:30 p.m.).
• Budgeting: Save on concessions by packing snacks and souvenirs. ATMs and cashless payment options are available for purchases.
• Safety: Keep children close during the crowded Glow, especially when walking among balloons. Use flashlights for safe navigation post-event.
• Nearby Attractions: Pair the GFPBR with a visit to the Variety Wonderland Playground (#4 nationally ranked), a half-acre accessible play space near the visitor center. Its wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, sensory wall, and slides offer inclusive fun, extending your family’s park experience.

Forest Park’s Generational Appeal

A Legacy of Community

The GFPBR embodies Forest Park’s “Generations of Love,” a theme highlighted by Forest Park Forever in November 2024. Since 1876, the park has united families, immigrants, and students, with events like the GFPBR becoming multigenerational traditions. Jessica Stegen, GFPBR director, noted, “We take true pride in seeing the beautiful diversity of our St. Louis region—families, couples, groups of friends—mingling between the balloons as they glow, dancing together on the Wash U Main Stage and cheering in unison for our pilots”. This community spirit aligns with healthcare10.website’s mission to foster social connection as a wellness pillar.

Members like Bill and Denise Perry, who shared their love for the park at Forest Park Forever’s 2024 pop-up party, reflect its universal appeal. Bill’s paintings of the park’s diverse visitors—from picnickers to balloon race attendees—capture its role as a communal hub.

Recent Developments

Forest Park’s ongoing enhancements ensure its legacy endures:

• East Waterways Project (Spring 2025): Added an accessible Jefferson Lake boardwalk and education pavilion, enhancing inclusivity.
• Nicholas J. Booker Basketball Courts (July 2024): Promote physical activity near Central Fields.
• 30-Year Agreement (August 2024): Secures Forest Park Forever’s maintenance role, ensuring future generations enjoy the park.

Safety Efforts

Recent incidents, such as a robbery near Carr Lane & Wells Drive on April 7, 2025, highlight safety challenges. Forest Park Forever and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department are increasing patrols and community engagement to maintain the park’s safety, critical for events like the GFPBR.

Wellness and Community Impact

Health Benefits

The GFPBR and Forest Park align with healthcare10.website’s wellness focus:

• Physical Activity: Walking to Central Fields, biking, or playing at the Variety Wonderland Playground promotes fitness. The playground’s active features improve children’s coordination, while adult activities enhance cardiovascular health, as detailed in our fitness guides.
• Mental Health: The Balloon Glow’s magical atmosphere and social festivities reduce stress, supported by our mental health resources. Inclusive spaces like the playground boost self-esteem for children with disabilities.
• Community Connection: The GFPBR’s diverse crowd fosters social bonds, combating isolation, a key wellness theme.
• Environmental Wellness: Forest Park’s sustainable practices, like the East Waterways project, resonate with our eco-conscious living content.

Generational Wellness

The GFPBR’s free admission, supported by sponsors like PNC Bank, ensures accessibility, making it a tradition for St. Louis families across generations. The event’s carnival atmosphere, combined with Forest Park’s cultural and recreational offerings, creates lasting memories that strengthen family ties, a focus of our lifestyle content.

Mediavine and Grow: Supporting Our Mission

Mediavine’s Role

healthcare10.website is pursuing Mediavine membership, a premier ad management network. Requirements include:

• 50,000 sessions in the previous 30 days (standard network) or 10,000 sessions (Journey program), verified by Google Analytics.
• High-quality, original content, like this 3,000-word guide.
• Organic traffic from search engines or Pinterest, with 50% from Tier 1 countries.
• Good standing with Google AdSense.

If accepted, Mediavine will manage ad placements, sustaining our free health content.

Grow by Mediavine

Grow by Mediavine enhances engagement and collects first-party data, supporting our application. Features include:

• Newsletters: Subscribe for event guides and wellness tips.
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Conclusion

Navigating the Great Forest Park Balloon Race 2025 offers a chance to experience St. Louis’s premier free event in Forest Park, a #3-ranked city park with the #4-ranked Variety Wonderland Playground. With practical tips for transportation, packing, and enjoying the Balloon Glow and Race, this guide ensures a memorable visit. The GFPBR’s generational appeal, uniting 150,000 diverse attendees, aligns with healthcare10.website’s mission to promote wellness through community and activity.

We invite you to attend the GFPBR on September 19–20, 2025, engage with our Grow features—subscribe, save, or share this guide—and join us in celebrating Forest Park’s legacy. By fostering health and connection, we aim to build a sustainable platform for free wellness resources, supported by Mediavine.