What not to miss this Labor Day weekend at Labor Day Lift Off in Colorado Springs
Labor Day Lift Off 2025 runs from Saturday, August 30, through Monday, September 1, at Memorial Park in Colorado Springs. Along with hot air balloons at sunrise, the festival features drone light shows every morning and evening, a tradition now in its third year.
Drone light shows morning and night
Since 2023, the drone shows have been a regular part of the festival schedule. They take place at the Memorial Park Ball Field, with viewing from the south side of the park, near Prospect Lake and the balloon field.
You’ll see:
- Morning shows: 6 am on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday mornings
- Evening shows: 9.30 pm on Saturday and Sunday night
Morning shows deliver crisp shapes against early daylight. Evening shows glow over the water, with animated formations in full color.
The drone shows have become a well-loved tradition:
- 2024 Labor Day Lift Off coverage shows how the night sky was filled with drones in place of fireworks.
- 2023 Labor Day Lift Off recap highlights the debut of synchronized drone shows alongside the balloons.
Other highlights
Drone light shows may be the centerpiece, but the weekend is full of activity:
- Hot air balloon launches each morning
- Balloon glows before dawn
- Food trucks, local vendors, and a beer garden
- Live music and entertainment
- Family-friendly activities on the park grounds
Viewing tips
- Head to the south side of Memorial Park near the lake and balloon field for the best views.
- Arrive early in the morning and evening, crowds gather quickly.
- Bring a blanket or chairs to sit comfortably.
- Pack layers: mornings are cool and nights can get chilly.
Practical info
- Dates: August 30 – September 1, 2025
- Location: Memorial Park, Colorado Springs
- Entry: Free; food, drinks, and merchandise available for purchase
- Best viewing spot: South side of the park by Prospect Lake and the balloon field
Don’t miss it
Labor Day Lift Off has grown into one of Colorado’s favorite holiday traditions. The drone light shows at the Memorial Park Ball Field, visible from the south side of the park by the balloons and lake, are the highlight of the weekend. Make sure you catch them morning and night.
Previous years drone show videos
Here you’ll find videos from past years’ drone shows to see how the tradition has grown:
The first-ever drone light show at Labor Day Lift Off. This debut performance introduced synchronized drones to the festival, forming hot air balloons, mountains, and themed designs in the sky, starting a new tradition in Colorado Springs.
The second year of drone light shows at Labor Day Lift Off. The 2024 performances expanded with larger formations and brighter animations, filling the night sky over Prospect Lake and solidifying the shows as a core part of the festival.
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