The 44-year Colorado Springs tradition of a hot air balloon event on Labor Day weekend will continue with the Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off on September 5-6. In the spirit of community and innovation, event organizers Hot Apple Productions, LLC and the Colorado Springs Sports Corporation plan to bring hot air balloons to residents across Colorado Springs amid the COVID-19 restrictions.

Spectators are encouraged to look to the sky - from the comfort of their homes - between 7:30-8:30 a.m. Saturday and Sunday morning to watch a spectacular array of 35+ balloons participating in the modified citywide celebration, lifting off from 10-12 locations across the city (balloon launch site area map is available at ColoradoSpringsLaborDayLiftOff.com).

Special thank you to Stella Artois for presenting the Saturday events and Xfinity for presenting the Sunday events.

While balloons soar overhead, tune in to your radio to listen to engaging and historical ballooning commentary. Event coverage will be aired with morning programming on the following radio stations: Sunny 106.3 FM, Y96.9, My 99.9, Cat Country 95.1, 96.1 The Beat, 92.9 Peak FM, 107.9 KBPI South, and AM 740 KVOR. Additionally, watch for special television coverage throughout the weekend on KKTV. Several "pop-up" Balloon Glows are planned around the community for Saturday evening at 7:00 p.m., weather permitting.

Residents are encouraged to participate in the action and get their cameras ready to enter the 2020 Labor Day Lift Off Photo Contest! In partnership with the Colorado Springs Gazette, spectators can snap and submit their best photo for a chance to win a hot air balloon ride for two.

While the Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off is historically one of the largest hot air ballooning events in the nation, and the largest in Colorado, this year's event will look and feel unique. In fact, the Labor Day Lift off will be one of less than ten balloon events taking place in the world this year. The usual donut eating contest, lake events, and field activities will not take place and no vendors will be available.

No events will occur at Memorial Park. However, the intent behind the modified event is to continue the tradition and make a positive impact on the community during this difficult time. With dispersed launch locations across the city, residents from all areas of Colorado Springs will be able to participate in the beauty of the event.