Hot Air for Hope 2025 is taking flight!
In this episode of Sierra Rec Now, host Charlie Pankey welcomes back Amanda Johnson, co-founder and director of the Hot Air for Hope Balloon Festival in Carson Valley, Nevada. Set for May 16–18, 2025, this free, family-friendly festival continues to grow—this year featuring over 30 hot air balloons, regional favorites from the Reno Balloon Race, and incredible community engagement.

🔥 We dive into:

• How Hot Air for Hope is inspiring the next generation of balloonists through school programs and STEM education

• What makes Carson Valley the perfect ballooning base for photographers, spectators, and first-time visitors

• Insider tips for enjoying morning launches, evening glow shows, and connecting with pilots

• Local food vendors, music, and family activities that make this more than just a balloon event

• Why Sierra Rec Magazine calls this one of the must-experience spring festivals in the Sierra

📍 Hosted by Charlie Pankey, recorded as part of Sierra Rec's spring spotlight on Carson Valley.
📸 Don’t forget your camera – Amanda shares tips for catching the best balloon shots!

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#CarsonValley #HotAirForHope #BalloonFestival #SierraEvents #NevadaSpringFestivals #SierraRecNow #GoExplore #DiscoverMoreSierra

Carson Valley’s skies are ready to light up again as the Hot Air for Hope Balloon Festival returns for its third year, May 16–18, 2025. And we’re thrilled to bring you a brand-new episode of the Sierra Rec Now Podcast featuring Amanda Johnson, one of the event’s passionate co-founders and directors.

🎧 In this episode, Amanda joins host Charlie Pankey to share how this balloon festival has grown into one of Carson Valley’s most beloved spring events—featuring more than 30 balloons, including some regional favorites from the Reno Balloon Festival.

But Hot Air for Hope is more than just a spectacle in the sky. It’s a community-driven celebration that connects families, inspires kids through educational STEM balloon programs, and brings together local food, music, and open skies in one unforgettable weekend. Amanda discusses:

• The balloon lineup and pilot favorites

• What visitors can expect each morning and evening at Lampe Park

• How the event is working with local schools to bring science and wonder to the classroom

• Tips for photographers and balloon chasers looking to get the perfect sunrise shot

• The heart behind the event—and how it supports the Center for Hope & Healing

“We want kids to touch the baskets, meet the pilots, and dream big,” Amanda says. “Hot Air for Hope isn’t just about looking up—it’s about lifting each other up.”

Sierra Rec Magazine will be on-site again this year covering the festival, capturing stories, and meeting the amazing volunteers and guests that make this such a feel-good event. If you're looking for a meaningful, scenic, and family-friendly weekend escape in the Sierra, mark your calendar for May 16–18 in Carson Valley.

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube.

📸 And if you're planning to attend, tag us in your photos using #HotAirForHope and #SierraRecMagazine!

Hot Air for Hope Takes Flight in Carson Valley – Podcast Feature with Amanda Johnson