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The morning is the main event ☀️ The balloons begin inflating early, with the big lift-off happening between 7:00–9:00 AM each morning. The official recommendation is to arrive by 6:30 AM. (I’d aim for earlier like before 6:00–6:15 AM so you aren’t stressed about parking, trust me) Parking is the something you 100% should to plan ahead for 🚗 Parking around Memorial Park fills very quickly. My tip: carpool with your friends! You can choose to purchase a parking pass before hand but limited parking passes are available through the event. You can also bike to the event and use the free bike valet! There are temporary road closures around the park, including 5–9:30 AM each morning so plan accordingly. Treat it like a picnic, not a quick stop 🧺 Bring a blanket or lawn chairs, water, sunscreen and layers. Coolers are allowed, but glass isn’t, and pets are not permitted. There are food vendors and entertainment, so you can easily make a morning of it rather than just watching the balloons and leaving. Colorado weather gets the final say, as always☁️ Balloon launches are weather-dependent. Wind, storms or other unsafe conditions can delay or cancel a launch. So keep an eye on the forecast because even if the sky looks perfect when you leave the house, be prepared for the schedule to change. There’s an evening experience, too 🌙 Saturday and Sunday have the “Balloon Glow”where the balloons are inflated and illuminated after dark. They don’t actually fly during the glow as they stay tethered but seeing dozens of balloons light up against the night sky is completely different from the morning lift-off and it’s beautiful! It’s more than just a balloon launch! 🎈 The Labor Day Lift Off is basically a full-blown festival! Other than the balloons, you’ll find live music, food vendors, kids’ activities, interactive entertainment, a beer garden, and the brand-new SkyFest Village for 2026. SkyFest Village will include things like a silent disco, Ninja Nation obstacle course, bubble entertainment and DJs. #coloradosprings #fallincoloradosprings #labordayevents #labordayliftoff #livingincoloradosprings