Pilots are the heart of the Great Prosser Balloon Rally and we’re excited to welcome you back – or have you join us for the first time – for the 37th Annual Great Prosser Balloon Rally, happening September 25–27, 2026. Each year, people travel from all over to experience the magic of balloons filling the skies over Prosser, and it’s your passion, talent, and commitment that make those unforgettable moments possible. Thanks for helping make this weekend so special!

The three-day event consists of:

• Morning launches on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday
• Tethered rides for kids on Saturday and Sunday
• Night Glow on Saturday evening

Pilot Responsibilities

• Please be sure to secure your own hotel accommodations!
  • Best Western Pilot rate = $146.99 + tax
  • Best Western Crew rate = 15% discount
• Mandatory pilot check-in and reception on Friday evening at Airfield Estates
• Mandatory pilot briefings each morning before flights and before Night Glow
• Fly event sponsors during the festival, as applicable
• Ensure a strong focus on safety at all times
• Paid festival flights are not permitted

Pilot Incentives

• Show-up stipend
  • Morning flights = $250 per event day
  • Tethered rides* (Sat/Sun) = $250 per event day
  • Night Glow* (Sat) = $300
  • School static* (Fri) = $200
  • Pre-Dawn Glow* = $300 per event day
  • *Limited availability
• Propane provided for all festival flights
• Pilot check in and catered dinner on Friday evening
• Discounted hotel accommodations (see above)
• A few newly added perks!

Please reach out to Vic Johnson (Balloonmeister) or Anita Maasen (GPBR Chairman) with any questions or concerns.