Marina
The 53rd Great Forest Park Balloon Race in St. Louis was canceled on Saturday, September 20, 2025, due to severe weather conditions. The annual event, one of the city’s most anticipated traditions, was scheduled to begin at 4:45 p.m. in Forest Park.
Thousands of spectators had gathered to watch the colorful hot air balloons take flight, but organizers announced the cancellation hours before launch.
Timeline of Events
At around 1:00 p.m., organizers advised attendees to return to their cars or seek safe shelter as storms approached. With the field conditions becoming extremely wet and thunderstorms predicted to continue into the evening, the final decision was made to call off the race.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Great Forest Park Balloon Race (53rd year) |
| Location | Forest Park, St. Louis, Missouri |
| Scheduled Take-Off | Saturday, Sept. 20, 2025 – 4:45 p.m. |
| Cancellation Time | Afternoon, around 1:00 p.m. |
| Main Reason | Thunderstorms and unsafe field conditions |
| Friday Activities | Balloon Glow and fireworks went as planned |
Why the Race Was Canceled
The decision was based on several critical factors:
- Thunderstorms and lightning risks created unsafe conditions for balloon flights.
- Extremely wet ground made launching and handling balloons dangerous.
- Public safety was prioritized, as large crowds were already gathered at Forest Park.
Organizers coordinated closely with weather officials before making the announcement.
Significance of the Balloon Race
The Great Forest Park Balloon Race has been a St. Louis tradition since 1973. Known for its spectacular visuals and family-friendly atmosphere, it regularly attracts tens of thousands of spectators each year. The event features not just the race but also food stalls, music, and the popular Balloon Glow the night before.
While rare, cancellations have happened in the past when weather made conditions unsafe. This year marks another such moment in the history of the festival.
The cancellation of the 2025 Great Forest Park Balloon Race disappointed thousands of fans who gathered to see the hot air balloons take to the skies.
Safety concerns from thunderstorms and unsafe field conditions forced organizers to prioritize public and participant well-being over tradition.
While the race could not go on this year, the strong legacy of this event means St. Louis residents and visitors will eagerly await its return in the future.