Colorado Balloon Classic facts for kids
The Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off is an exciting hot air balloon festival that happens every year in Colorado Springs, Colorado. It's held during the Labor Day weekend, usually near Prospect Lake in Memorial Park. This festival is super special because it's the biggest and longest-running hot air balloon event in the entire Rocky Mountain region! It's a fantastic way to celebrate the end of summer with family and friends.
Contents
What is the Labor Day Lift Off?
The Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off is a huge celebration of hot air balloons. Imagine a sky filled with dozens of colorful balloons taking flight at the same time! It's a truly amazing sight. People come from all over to watch the balloons launch early in the morning.
A Sky Full of Colors
During the festival, you can see many different hot air balloons. Each balloon has its own unique design and colors. When they all inflate and lift off together, it looks like a giant, floating art show in the sky. It's a perfect chance to take some cool photos!
Night Glow Event
One of the most popular parts of the festival is the "Balloon Glow" or "Night Glow." After the sun sets, the balloons don't fly. Instead, they are inflated on the ground and light up their burners. This makes the balloons glow like giant lanterns against the dark sky. It's a magical experience for everyone watching.
History of the Festival
The Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off has a long history. It first started way back in 1977. For many years, it was known as the Colorado Balloon Classic. It has been held every single Labor Day weekend since then, making it a beloved tradition in Colorado Springs.
Why Labor Day Weekend?
The festival takes place on Labor Day weekend, which is a holiday in the United States. This long weekend gives families and visitors extra time to come and enjoy the event. It's a great way to celebrate the end of summer before school starts up again for many kids.
Where Does the Lift Off Happen?
The festival is held at Memorial Park in Colorado Springs. This park is a great location because it has lots of open space. The balloons launch near Prospect Lake, which adds to the beautiful scenery.
Memorial Park and Prospect Lake
Memorial Park is a large park in Colorado Springs. It has plenty of room for the balloons to set up and take off. Prospect Lake is a pretty lake within the park. The reflections of the balloons on the water can be stunning, especially during the early morning launches.
Gallery
-
The 2009 Colorado Balloon Classic near Prospect Lake
