Prepare to be captivated by the return of spectacular balloon traditions at the biggest hot air balloon festival in Colorado. Each day, starting at 7 a.m., you will witness the awe-inspiring sight of 70 hot air balloons ascending into the Colorado Springs sky during the morning balloon lift-offs. Additionally, the enchanting sunset hot air balloon glows at 7:30 p.m. on both Saturday, September 2, and Sunday, September 3, features the illuminated hot air balloons in a magical display of light and color.
Morning hot air balloon adventures will be provided by Rainbow Ryders daily. The check-in tent will be located at Memorial Park and guests will fly at sunrise. Guests will have the option to choose between shared or private rides, each approximately 45 to 60 minutes. Rates begin at $395 per person.
Each day presents an array of musical and performative entertainment. The Martini Shot, a six-piece horn-powered band, will deliver high-energy pop-rock covers and original songs. Mosquito Pass brings back the pure sound of country music with a mix of Outlaw, Red Dirt, Southern Rock, and Bluegrass. Missy and The Dirty Secrets rock the stage with their energetic performances of hits spanning multiple decades. The Wings of Blue USAF Skydiving Team will showcase their elite skills through thrilling demonstrations, while Aerial Aura adds excitement with captivating aerial acrobatics. Prepare for an unforgettable experience of music, skydiving, and aerial entertainment!
The 2nd annual Orangetheory 5K run makes its return Sunday, September 3rd. The race begins at 9 am but come early to catch the dazzling sight of 70 hot air balloons lifting off and painting the sky.
The Lift Off Lounge VIP Experience offers individuals a one-of-a-kind opportunity to have an elevated view of everything at Labor Day Lift Off. Escape the summer crowds in a private tent and seating area with prime viewing of both the morning lift offs and evening glows. Ticket holders in the lounge will enjoy catered meals & beverages, shaded seating area, private restrooms, preferred parking and LDLO swag bag.
A drone light show by Grizzly Drones, a world-leading drone light show provider. The drone light show is performed by illuminated, synchronized, and choreographed groups of drones that arrange themselves into various aerial formations. Experience the magical formations in the sky at each session of Labor Day Lift Off, with a morning show starting at 6:00AM before the balloon launch, and the evening show at 8:00PM after the Balloon Glow.
Announcing Cody Cozz! Nashville Recording Country Artist, Cody Cozz, will be gracing the stage at the highly anticipated Labor Day Lift Off on Saturday, September 2. Hailing from Pueblo, Colorado, and now based in Nashville, Tennessee, Cody has taken the country music scene by storm. Don't miss the opportunity to witness Cody Cozz's captivating performances at the Labor Day Lift Off. Join us from 6-7pm and 8:30-9:30pm for an unforgettable evening filled with the mesmerizing melodies of this rising country music star. Experience the magic and be part of the Cody Cozz phenomenon!
Hot Air Happy Hour
The Hot Air Happy Hour will take place from 3:30-5:30pm on Saturday and Sunday of Labor Day Weekend. Enjoy $2 off drinks in the beer garden as well as special discounts at participating food trucks and vendors. Get to LDLO early to take advantage of all the fun!
The Labor Day Lift Off Pathfinders Volunteer Program sponsored by Bank of America creates an opportunity for volunteers to immerse themselves in the festivities and make a lasting impact on the cherished tradition of Labor Day Lift Off. Maintaining consistency from session to session is invaluable for the event's success and the Pathfinders program allows people to tailor their volunteer experience to their schedule, with incentives to express appreciation for our volunteer’s dedication.
Prepare for a thrilling experience filled with excitement and entertainment for all ages. Witness the adrenaline-pumping activities, where little cowboys and cowgirls can test their skills in mutton bustin' and compete in goat roping. Don't miss the chance for children to learn the rodeo basics at Rodeo 101, while our talented artists transform faces with colorful designs at the face painting station. Encounter fascinating animal ambassadors and artifacts at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo ZooMobile and get ready for some action-packed fun at Nerf Turf's nerf gun arena. Don't miss out on the endless fun and entertainment at the Pepsi Family Rodeo Zone, open during all sessions of the Labor Day Lift Off.
Photography Zone
Get the perfect photo at Labor Day Lift Off! In partnership with Mike’s Camera, Labor Day Lift Off will be offering an exclusive photography workshop to give photographers of all skill levels the tools and knowledge to capture the magic of the hot air balloons featured at the event. The workshop will have access to the elevated deck at the Memorial Park Velodrome where participants are guaranteed to capture the ultimate balloon pictures during inflation, launch, and glows. To sign-up for the photo pass experience, visit LaborDayLiftOff.com.
