Colorado Springs has been sending hot air balloons into the sky over Memorial Park every Labor Day weekend for 50 years, and this year's edition is shaping up to be the biggest one yet. The 50th annual Labor Day Lift Off runs September 5 through 7 — free general admission, about 65 balloons, and a full weekend of programming that goes well beyond watching the balloon mass ascensions at sunrise.

The milestone anniversary brings some new additions: special-shape balloons that haven't been part of the lineup before, and a ticketed Overlook Club for families who want elevated seating and a premium experience. Everything else — the morning mass ascensions, the evening balloon glows, the USAF skydiving demonstrations, the food and music — is free and open to everyone.

The Balloons

The centerpiece of the event is the morning mass ascension, which happens every day at 7 AM. About 65 hot air balloons launch in sequence, rising above Memorial Park with Pikes Peak in the background — one of the most reliably spectacular visuals in Colorado. For families with young children, this is the moment worth setting the alarm for.

Beyond the Balloons

The Lift Off packs a full schedule of events alongside the balloon activities. The U.S. Air Force skydiving team performs aerial demonstrations throughout the weekend. After dark, the Grizzly drone show runs synchronized light displays in the sky — a newer addition that's become one of the most talked-about parts of the event.

There's also a Labor Day 5K run for families who want to add a race to the weekend, plus live music throughout all three days, a full lineup of food vendors, and artisan markets for those who want to browse while the kids take in the scene.

The event runs from 6 AM to 11 PM each day, giving families plenty of flexibility. You don't need to be there for the 7 AM ascension — though it's worth it. Coming for the afternoon and staying through the evening glow is equally rewarding.

What's New for the 50th

Two additions distinguish this year's event from prior editions. First, the special-shape balloons — specific designs haven't been announced publicly yet, but they typically include larger, novelty balloon shapes that draw their own crowd. Second, the Overlook Club is a new ticketed premium experience that offers elevated seating for families who want a cleaner sightline for the mass ascensions and glows. Pricing details are available at visitcos.com.

What's Next

The Labor Day Lift Off is one week away, and general admission is free — so the main planning task is getting to Memorial Park early enough to find a good spot before the 7 AM mass ascension. Blankets, lawn chairs, and layers for the early morning are the practical prep. For more information on the Overlook Club ticketing, the 5K registration, and the full schedule, visit visitcos.com. Parking details and any updates to the schedule will also be posted there as the event gets closer.