The summer just wouldn't be complete without two big balloon festivals in Colorado.

Balloon festivals are extremely cool because, well, they feature really big hot air balloons, and it's not just every day you see one of those things floating by.

Colorado Springs and Aspen Snowmass will both have hot air balloon festivals in September, which is a great way to wind down the summer festival season. Either one of these festivals would be an excellent family getaway.

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    COLORADO SPRINGS LABOR DAY LIFT OFF

    September 1-3

    The Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift Off is a free event. The day starts with a hot air balloon mass ascension and throughout the day they have skydiving demonstrations, paddle boarding, chainsaw carving, live entertainment, and donut eating competitions.

    For the cool price of $275 you can enjoy a balloon ride amongst some 70 balloons that will be floating around.

    The event is held at Memorial Park, off Pike's Peak Avenue between Hancock Avenue and Union Boulevard.

    By the way, the event is free, but you will have to pay for parking.

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    SNOWMASS BALLOON FESTIVAL

    September 7-9

    The Snowmass Balloon Festival is a free event where about 30 balloon pilots compete in challenges and races with spectators looking on.

    Saturday and Sunday morning will feature a mass balloon ascension. Saturday night delivers a Glow Show with a balloon glow and free concert.

    The festival takes place at Snowmass Town Park and there is free shuttle service throughout Snowmass Village to Town Park.

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