The 2025 Burning Man event is scheduled to take place from August 24 to September 1. This gathering, held in Black Rock City, Nevada, is the flagship event of the Burning Man Project, showcasing its core principles and various program areas. Participants come together to create a temporary city in the desert, engaging in artistic expression and community collaboration. After a week of immersive experiences, the city is dismantled, leaving no trace behind, emphasizing the event’s commitment to environmental responsibility and the ethos of radical self-reliance. The theme for this year is Tomorrow Today. To find out more about Burning Man go to https://burningman.org/event/
Tens of thousands of Burning Man participants are expected to pass through Reno-Tahoe International Airport in the coming weeks, bringing with them a surge of flights, costumes, and congestion.
If you’re headed to RNO soon for Burning Man, here’s what to know. The following information was obtained from the Reno-Tahoe International Airport’s official website, which outlines what travelers can expect during one of its busiest times of year.
From late August through Labor Day, the airport sees a significant increase in traffic due to the annual migration of attendees heading to and from Black Rock City.
Airlines are adding special flights during this period, including additional service to cities such as Los Angeles, San Diego, and Newark, New Jersey.
Travelers are advised to plan and arrive at least two hours early. Airport construction may cause delays, and the overall volume of travelers can lead to longer lines and limited seating.
According to airport officials, there are no showers or storage facilities at RNO. Travelers are strongly encouraged to clean up and dress fully before arriving at the airport. “Many people are from other walks of life, and it’s a common courtesy,” the site notes.
Passengers should not bring trash to the airport or car rental agencies. Local disposal and recycling services are available.
Air Playa Info, located next to Baggage Claim, operates daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. beginning the Friday before Burning Man through the following Thursday. Volunteers provide maps, directions, and information on transportation options to Black Rock City, as well as other local resources.
Transportation options from the airport to the playa include:
- Bus: The Burner Express bus service, contracted through The BusBank, departs twice daily from the airport starting the Saturday before the event through Thursday. Return service operates from Friday through Tuesday. Riders can choose a direct trip or one with a supply stop at Save Mart Supermarket.
- Air: Approved charter flights run daily between Reno-Tahoe International and Black Rock City Municipal Airport before, during, and after the event.
- Rental car: Multiple agencies operate out of the airport. Early reservations are recommended.
- Rideshare: Travelers may find rides directly at the airport or at the Rideshare Base at Save Mart on Keystone Avenue, which is open 24 hours and located about 10 minutes from RNO. Participants often offer rides and share supplies. Offering to contribute to gas is encouraged.
“Check in at Air Playa Info inside the airport. Most Burning Man participants will stop by here, and the Air Playa Info volunteers can be of help in figuring out your options,” the website states.
Travelers are reminded to check Transportation Security Administration regulations and properly dispose of any prohibited items before arrival.
Items such as propane tanks, nitrous oxide canisters, knives, tools, fireworks, and certain liquids or gels are not allowed. “Be sure to properly dispose of them before arrival at the airport,” the site advises.
