Activities at FLOAT
FLOAT’s Activities and Functions
Friday, January 23rd
Sculpture Competition (Pre-Enrollment Required)
Presented by Gemar USA and HI-SHINE
8:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Nevada Convention Center (Casino Level)
Access to Class Pass Holders Only – Must be enrolled prior to FLOAT
Our battle for Designer of the Year is the very first thing to kick off the convention. Artists will have twelve hours to build a 10’ by 10’ by 10’ free-standing balloon sculpture based on a theme of their choosing. This is a long and stressful challenge to be sure, but the results are always fun and fabulous!
Hands on Decor Builds
12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Carson and Reno Ballrooms (Casino Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
With three different major social functions taking place over the weekend, there’s lot to prepare for. So jump in and help out as our sponsors get ready to provide all the different decorations for the Club L8X Karaoke Party and FLOAT’s Opening Night Event and Fashion Show. They’re always looking for help, so learn while you do!
The Friday Night Fun
8:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Salon (Casino Level)
Access to All Pass Holders
This casual party was a huge hit in 2024, so we’ve brought it back for Reno! Join us Friday night as folks start to filter in to FLOAT with this light and fun connection event. There will be corn hole, fun balloon games, music and more…last year a volleyball even showed up! So if you’re looking to meet new friends before the crowds show up, this is a GREAT way to do it!
Saturday, January 24th
Entrance Decor Competition (Pre-Enrollment Required)
Presented by Anagram and Elitex
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Access to Class Pass Holders Only – Must be enrolled prior to FLOAT
In the second round of the Designer of the Year challenge, artists have four hours to create a fabulous entrance piece to decorate a particular theme or concept. While that theme or concept has yet to be announced, just know that whatever it is, you’re going to see a myriad of ways our designers will approach that idea while creating incredible entryway decor.
Hands on Decor Builds
8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Carson and Reno Ballrooms (Casino Level)
Access to all pass holders
The Friday Night Fun event might be over, but there’s still Club L8X Karaoke Party and FLOAT’s Opening Night Event and Fashion Show to look forward to. And there’s NO WAY they’re done getting ready yet. So jump in and offer some help to these teams working to create a dynamic and amazing series of decor for our functions.
Fashion Show Prep Work
1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Nevada Foyer (Spa Level)
Access to all pass holders
Ever want to look behind the curtain and see how those fabulous balloon dresses are created? Well, wonder no more as the sponsored designers all work on their pieces while you observe! And yes, you can ask questions, but you have to let them work too as they get ready for the big show!
Column Design Competition (Pre-Enrollment Required)
Presented by Gemar USA
2:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Tahoe Ballroom (Casino Level)
Access to Class Pass Holders Only – Must be enrolled prior to FLOAT
The newest Designer of the Year challenge at FLOAT this year is the Column Design Competition, where competitors build a singular balloon column. The catch is you have to absolutely dazzle the judges with your range of skill and technique when it comes to your piece. This may sound easy, but I can assure you…it will be brutal…
The FLOAT Jam Session
6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Salon (Casino Level)
Access to All Pass Holders
Saturday night kicks off our first real FLOAT Jam Session…sure, we’ve had unofficial ones in the past, but never ones with vendor supported product, featured artists, contests and more! So make sure you bring your creativity and energy into what is sure to be a really fun time!
The Balloon Friends Meet & Greet
7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Nevada Foyer (Spa Level)
Access to All Pass Holders
Are you a member of the “Balloon Friends International” group on Facebook? If so, you’re invited to an exclusive little gathering…Here’s your chance to get to meet those faces where you might only know their names online! And knowing Kathy Buell, the founder of the group, there will be fun and friendliness abound in this special activity.
Club L8X Karaoke and Dance Party
Presented in part by Kalisan Balloons & IMPRSV
8:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Reno Ballroom (Casino Level)
Access to All Pass Holders
Ok, folks…time again to be a rock star for three minutes! That’s right…FLOAT’s popular Saturday night staple is BACK in Reno! Get your vocal chords ready to belt out those notes for all to hear. And hey…not interested in singing? Then get out there and dance during our “breaks in the action” throughout the night. C’mon….you know you want to…
Sunday, January 25th
Organic Decor Competition (Pre-Enrollment Required)
Presented by Betallic
8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Reno Ballroom (Casino Level)
Access to Class Pass Holders Only – Must be enrolled prior to FLOAT
The Designer of the Year contest enters it’s third and final day, and Sunday morning kicks off with a big one! Teams will inflate and place balloons to create the most dynamic and impactful organic install they can within the allotted time. This one is always a huge draw for attention!
Hands on Decor Build
8:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Carson and Reno Ballrooms (Casino Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
FLOAT’s Opening Night Event and Fashion Show will be starting later this day, so everything HAS to be ready for the big night! Join in and lend a hand and learn by doing as you help to get the final touches in place for the launch of FLOAT 2026.
The Vendor Showcase
9:00 AM VIP Access
11:00 AM to 6:00 PM All Others
Summit Pavilion (Casino Level)
Access to All Pass Holders
It’s finally here…the start of FLOAT’s Vendor Showcase…and the biggest one ever! The room will feature between 150 and 180 booth spaces, and you’ll get to visit each and every one of them! Meet our vendors, learn about their services, shop them and take home all kinds of goodies. ALOFT STREAMING MEMBERS AND FLOATATION PASS HOLDERS MAY ENTER AT 9:00 AM
Fulcrum @ FLOAT Discussion Panel – Analog Marketing
Presented by Fulcrum
12:30 PM to 2:00 PM
Crystal Ballroom 1 & 2 (Casino Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
Panel discussions are always a great way to get multiple perspectives on general topics. And like our Fulcrum conferences that take place opposite years of FLOAT, we bringing a little taste of Fulcrum to Reno! This panel will discuss ways to market your business withOUT being a social media guru…like networking groups, trade shows and more.
Fulcrum @ FLOAT Discussion Panel – If I Knew Then…
Presented by Fulcrum
12:30 PM to 2:00 PM
Crystal Ballroom 4 & 5 (Casino Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
Panel discussions are always a great way to get multiple perspectives on general topics. And like our Fulcrum conferences that take place opposite years of FLOAT, we bringing a little taste of Fulcrum to Reno! This panel will feature industry veterans with over 100 collective years amongst them looking back and talking about how they might have done things differently if they could turn back time…
Sponsored Session – Large Scale Installation with Mini-Garlands
Presented by Balloonia
2:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Nevada 1 & 2 (Spa Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
Join Anastasia Onishchenko as she shows you quick and efficient ways to create large-scale balloon installations using organic mini balloon garlands. In this session, she will show you techniques to seamlessly combine smaller garlands into one cohesive and eye-catching design. Here you’ll learn creative strategies and expert tips to elevate your balloon artistry, all from our friends at Balloonia!
Sponsored Session – Static Mockups Are Dead: Make More Money in Less Time with Priced Design Selling
Presented by Fanfaire
2:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Nevada 6 (Spa Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
Mockups shouldn’t be busy work — they should sell for you. Learn how dynamic, priced designs replace static visuals and manual quoting, helping you make more money in less time from your friends at Fanfaire. See why iteration beats recreation and how pricing inside your designs drives faster, higher-value bookings.
Table Centerpiece Competition (Pre-Enrollment Required)
Presented by Babaloon
2:30 PM to 4:00 PM
Nevada Conference Center (Spa Level)
Access to Class Pass Holders Only – Must be enrolled prior to FLOAT
The Designer of the Year contest comes to an end with the fast and frantic centerpiece competition. Here designers have just 90 minutes to create stylish and elegant table decor for a themed event. These contest defines fast and furious!
Sponsored Session – TBD
Presented by Gemar USA
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Crystal Ballroom 1 & 2 (Casino Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
Join our friends from Gemar USA for this informative sponsored session on Sunday. Content not available at the time of this posting.
Sponsored Session – A Sweet Surprise from Anagram
Presented by Anagram
4:30 PM to 5:30 PM
Crystal Ballroom 1 & 2 (Casino Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
Stop by for this fun and informal pop-in moment designed to delight and inspire. This is not a class but a casual experience where attendees can connect, enjoy a little surprise and enter an exclusive giveaway. Come curious, say “hi” and treat yourself to something sweet!
The Performance of Mia Asano
Presented by FLOAT
7:30 PM to 8:00 PM
Access to all Pass Holders
FLOAT 2024 saw a special performance by rock violinist Mia Asano, and we are absolutely planning to bring her back in 2026! So before the Opening Night event kicks off, come down early to check out Mia’s performance as she warms up the crowd before FLOAT officially begins!
FLOAT’s Opening Night Event and Fashion Show – A Whole New Dimension
Presented by Betallic, Gemar USA and IMPRSV
8:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Carson and Reno Ballrooms (Casino Level)
COSTUME THEME – Outer Space/Alien, Sci Fi cosplay or just LOTS of ORANGE!
Access to all Pass Holders
We are finally here…the official start of FLOAT 2026. Join us as we introduce you to all of the incredible people who make FLOAT happen, go over a few policies and such of the convention and marvel at the talented people who put on our first ever formal Fashion Show at FLOAT. Oh, and there’s always some surprises along the way…it’s gonna be out of this world…
Competition Viewing
10:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Tahoe Ballroom (Casino Level) and Nevada Conference Center (Spa Level)
Access to all Pass Holders
Once the Opening Night event has ended, now is your chance to check out all the competition pieces. Make sure you have LOTS of room on your cameras or phones….you’re gonna need it for the countless photos you’re going to take.
WEEKEND PASS HOLDERS – Please remember that your access to FLOAT 2026 ends at 12:00 AM on Monday, January 26th. So this is where you time with us comes to a close.
Monday, January 26th
Hands on Decor Build
8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Reno Ballroom (Casino Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
There’s still one big event to go, so why not lend a hand in getting the decorations ready for this big moment? Work will begin today for the Designer Awards Gala, so check in with who needs help bringing their big moment to life!
Hanging Decor Design Contest
Presented by Clik-Clik
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Salon (Casino Level)
Access to Class Pass Holders Only
Want to show off your talents at FLOAT and maybe even win a little cash? Then showcase your entry in our “Magic of Flight” themed design challenge. No need to pre-register; just show up with your entry and be prepared to hang it over the crowd in the FLOAT Flop Zone.
Contest Entry Viewing
12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Tahoe Ballroom (Casino Level) and Nevada Conference Center (Spa Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
Didn’t get enough time to check out all the gorgeous creations made in both the Designer of the Year competitions? Well, take time to visit them today and take LOTS of photos of these exquisite pieces
Learn at Lunch #1 with Gemar USA
12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Nevada Foyer (Spa Level)
Access to FLOATation Pass Holders Only
A brand new benefit to our FLOATation Pass holders at FLOAT, join us as you are treated to lunch by FLOAT and then a quick 30-minute “flash class” from our friends at Gemar. Something tells us this is going to be the new rage at FLOAT 2026
The FLOAT Jam Room
6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Salon (Casino Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
Once again, the FLOAT Flop Zone breaks down into the chaotic calamity of the Jam Room. Visit with sponsors and see what products they have, meet top level talent and engage in fun balloon games and contests. Even if you’re just there to watch, you’ll definitely have fun in the process. And be sure to join Wally Elaj representing Gemar in the room as he’s featured to be there in the flesh for fun and skills.
The FLOAT Vendor Showcase Night Market
6:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Summit Pavilion (Casino Level)
COSTUME THEME: Pajama Party
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
Day Two of the Vendor Showcase often brings with a new concept…our first ever Night Market! Join us in the Vendor Room with a DJ playing requests, bar service and lots of fun activities. Also bring your plush animals for the “Teddy Bear Toy Drive” as well!
Tuesday, January 27th
Hands on Decor Build
8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Reno Ballroom (Casino Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
Now that it’s Tuesday, the decor for the Designer Awards Gala is in full effect. And believe me, sponsors will be pulling out all the stops for this one. So make absolutely certain you’re there to lend a hand and adding your particular flair to the finale.
The FLOAT Vendor Showcase
12:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Summit Pavilion (Casino Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
It’s your last chance to get in to the Vendor Showcase and secure your deals before the tents fold up and it all goes away. The show is MUCH shorter today, so schedule time to get one last tour of the room and show those folks your love with your BUSINESS! And don’t miss the live raffle at 2:00 PM with prizes galore, including free registrations to Fulcrum 2027 and FLOAT 2028!
Delivery Piece Design Contest
Presented by HIFLOAT
12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
Salon (Casino Level)
Access to Class Pass Holders Only
Want to show off your talents at FLOAT and maybe even win a little cash? Then create a delivery piece celebrating the theme of “Graduation” and take a chance! And yes, you MUST use HIFLOAT in your design, but the good news is we will provide you with helium if you need it!
Competition Entry Viewing
12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Tahoe Ballroom (Casino Level) and Nevada Conference Center (Spa Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
Didn’t get enough time to check out all the gorgeous creations made in both the Designer of the Year competitions? Well, take time to visit them today and take LOTS of photos of these exquisite pieces
Learn at Lunch #2 with Anagram Balloons
12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Nevada Foyer (Spa Level)
Access to FLOATation Pass Holders Only
It’s Day Two of the complimentary lunches as part of the FLOATation program, and today it’s Anagram’s turn to show off their mad skills in the 30-minute flash class featuring the ladies from Bubblegum Balloons! Again, this is only open to those who purchased the FLOATation Pass.
Sponsored Session – Link Up with Betallic
Presented by Betallic
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Carson 3 & 4 (Casino Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
Interested in joining the Betallic Balloon Club, or already a member? Come to this sneak peek of the Betallic Balloon Club platform! We will show you what’s inside, discuss the benefits of joining, and then enjoy a class taught by our friends, Balloon Club Co, that will feature a tutorial on creating a Link-O-Loon Heart Chocolate Box.
Sponsored Session – Mastering Texture and Volume in Your Organics
Presented by Balloonia
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Nevada 4 & 5 (Spa Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
Join Anastasia Onishchenko once again as she shares her secrets of transforming your balloon designs with rich texture and dynamic volume. She’ll show you innovative techniques to add depth and dimension to your balloon art that will make your creations stand out. So join Anastasia and dive into the art of layering and textures.
Sponsored Session – Adding Revenue Through a Partnership with Balloonery.com
Presented by Balloonery.com
1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Nevada 7 (Spa Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
This session introduces you to a partnership opportunity for established balloon operators. Attendees will learn how their business can earn additional income by fulfilling Balloonery.com orders in their local market. The session outlines how the partnership works, what’s required to participate, and whether applying makes sense for your business. The session will be led by Balloonery’s founder and joined by one of the company’s fulfillment partners who will share their first-hand experience.
The FLOAT Jam Room
6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Salon (Casino Level)
Access to Class, Foundation and Jam Pass Holders Only
For the last time during FLOAT, , the Flop Zone embraces the energy of the Jam Room. Visit with sponsors and see what products they have, meet top level talent and engage in fun balloon games and contests. While we fully expect to see more jamming Wednesday night as well, there won’t be any formal vendors or sponsors on display then.
The Balloon Bowling Battle
7:00 PM to ???
Grand Sierra Bowling Center (Casino Level)
Open Access to Anyone
This was the event you never knew you needed…but will love and adore! FLOAT’s Academic Sponsors are formally invited to “battle it out” on the bowling lanes at the Grand Sierra Resort! Teams of four will bowl against each other, with the top team scores moving on into the “Final Four of FLOAT”, followed by tournament style play until one team is declared the winner! Here’s one time where you’re more than welcome to have your mind in the gutter…as long as it’s not there with your bowling ball!
JAM / NETWORK PASS HOLDERS – Please remember that your access to FLOAT 2026 ends at 12:00 AM on Wednesday, January 28th. So this is where you time with us comes to a close.
Wednesday, January 28th
Hands on Decor Build
8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Reno Ballroom (Casino Level)
Access to all remaining Pass Holders
It’s finally here…the last official day of FLOAT, so it’s time to bring it all together with the Designer Awards Gala. And believe me, sponsors will be pulling out all the stops for this one. So lend a hand as the designers come scrambling to the finish line
Learn at Lunch #3 with Betallic Inc
12:30 PM to 1:30 PM
Nevada Foyer (Spa Level)
Access to FLOATation Pass Holders Only
Time to grab one more “flash class” before the convention ends…oh yeah, and a free lunch! Today our friends at Betallic will dazzle and adore you with their knowledge, skills and generosity, just for purchasing the optional FLOATation Pass. Join our friends from the Master Balloon Professional program as they guide you through how to design a table centerpiece worthy of the MBP title.
FLOAT Accredited Balloon Professional Testing
2:30 PM to 4:00 PM
Nevada Foyer (Spa Level)
Access to Foundational Pass Holders Only
OK, you’ve officially completed all ten courses and your instructors have signed off on your involvement…it’s time to put your knowledge to the test! Pass this written exam and you will be one of FLOAT’s very first certified artists….or should we say you’ll be FAB…P 🙂
The Orange Carpet
Presented by Kalisan Balloons
5:30 PM to 6:30 PM – FLOATation Pass Holders
6:30 PM to 8:00 PM – All Others
Salon (Casino Level)
Access to all Gala Ticket Holders
It’s time for the Gala, but before the awards are handed out, it’s time to give up the glam! Join us before the DAG starts with a walk on “The Orange Carpet.” Get your photos taken, see and be seen and just have fun with this moment of glitz! VIP Access for FLOATation Pass holders
The Designer Awards Gala – A Tribute to Tommy
Presented by Betallic, Gemar USA, Kalisan Balloons, HISHINE, IMPRSV and Pioneer Balloon
8:00 PM to 1:00 AM
Carson and Reno Ballroom (Casino Level)
Access to all Gala Ticket Holders
And here we are…the end of the road…the Designer Awards Gala. This is the night where all of the winners are announced, trophies presented and we reflect on the time we have spent together. And this year, we honor the life and memory of Tommy DeLorenzo, a dear friend and FLOAT Family member who left us way too soon…after the awards are handed out, we finish the night tearing it up on the dance floor like there’s no tomorrow…
Competition Entry Viewing
10:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Tahoe Ballroom (Casino Level) and Nevada Conference Center (Spa Level)
Access to all Gala Ticket Holders
Did you take home a big award? Why would you NOT want to get a picture with your winning design(s) in your fanciest duds? This year, we open the galleries so everyone can pose with their pieces in their gala attire. So much fun!
Thursday, January 29th
The FLOAT Feedback Meeting
8:00 AM to 9:30 AM
Crystal Ballroom 1 & 2 (Casino Level)
Open to Class and Foundational Pass Holders
Now that the convention is officially over, do you have thoughts about what you just experienced? And you want to make 100% sure that someone from FLOAT knows what you have to say? Then join FLOAT’s Executive Producer, Steven Jones, as he hosts an open feedback session. Help steer the course of FLOAT’s future with your ideas and suggestions…just know that Steve might have his own answers waiting in the wings too…
Group Lunch Outing
1:30 PM to 3:30 PM
Convention Area Atrium
Access to all attendees
Been cooped up too long inside the GSR? Then join the remaining FLOATers for a lunch outing OUTSIDE the host hotel! All costs are on your own, and the restaurant will be chosen by those who are going. Transportation is on your own too, so get that ride share app updated now!
Flopping and Jamming
4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Crystal Ballroom 1 & 2 (Casino Level)
Access to all attendees
As we spend last few minutes together, come hang out with the remaining FLOATers as they enjoy one last get together. There won’t be any formal jamming with product available, so make sure you bring some balloons from home for this one. Or just enjoy the “inflatable furniture” for old times sake as we get ready for the last event of the day…
FLOAT Bowling Party
7:00 PM to ???
Grand Sierra Bowling Center (Casino Level)
Open to all attendees
Since Reno has a long tradition and connection to bowling, there’s no better way to say good-bye to our new home than with a few games down the lanes! Costs for this are on your own, so strap on some shoes and bowl with us or just hang out and visit with those brave enough to roll ‘em.