Labor Day originated in the late 19th century to honor American workers and the labor movement amid long workdays and harsh conditions. The first Labor Day parade was held in New York City on September 5, 1882, and the holiday gained federal recognition in 1894 under President Grover Cleveland. Over the years, Labor Day has evolved from celebrating workers' rights to a day of rest, leisure, and retail sales, marking the unofficial end of summer.
On Labor Day, people engage in activities ranging from leisurely pursuits to family gatherings. Many take advantage of the long weekend to go on a short vacation or participate in outdoor activities like hiking, barbecuing, or going to the mountains.
If you’re spending Labor Day in the Pikes Peak region, here’s a categorized list of fun events and activities to enjoy:
Labor Day Highlights
Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift-Off
The Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift-Off is an annual hot air balloon festival held over Labor Day weekend, a tradition since the late 1970s. As one of the largest events of its kind in the U.S., it attracts thousands of spectators to witness dozens of vibrant hot air balloons fill the sky. The festival has evolved to include activities beyond balloon launches, such as skydiving demos, wakeboarding, live music and evening "balloon glows," where tethered balloons are illuminated from within. This community event marks the end of summer and offers diverse activities for all ages.
Location: Memorial Park, Colorado Springs — 1605 E. Pikes Peak Ave
Date: Saturday, August 30 – Monday, September 1, 2025
Time: Morning mass ascension begins at 7:00 a.m. (park opens around 5:15 a.m.)
Cost: Free general admission
Activities include:
- Mass ascension of ~70 hot air balloons
- Drone light shows at dawn and dusk
- Skydiving demos from USAF
- Live entertainment, food vendors, paddleboarding, and more
Labor Day at the Colorado State Fair
The Colorado State Fair, a cherished tradition dating back to 1869, has long been a staple of Labor Day weekend festivities. Originally started in Denver before finding its permanent home in Pueblo in 1886, the fair has grown to be a monumental celebration of Colorado's rich agricultural heritage, diverse culture, and vibrant community. Attending the fair on Labor Day has become a rite of passage for many Coloradans who look forward to the vast array of attractions—from live concerts and rodeos to delicious food and carnival rides. Open from 11 AM to 11 PM on Labor Day, the fair offers the perfect day-long escape to mark the end of summer. Whether you're a local or a visitor, spending Labor Day at the Colorado State Fair is a tradition you won't want to miss!
Location: Colorado State Fairgrounds, 1001 Beulah Ave., Pueblo, CO 81004
Dates: Friday, August 22 – Monday, September 1, 2025 (Labor Day)
Fair Hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 3:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
- Friday–Sunday & Labor Day: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Cost:
- Adults (13 & older): $15
- Kids (ages 5–12): $7
- Children (4 & under): Free with an accompanying adult
Air Force Football vs. Bucknell
Are you looking to kick off your Labor Day weekend with high energy and excitement? Grab your tickets for the Air Force Falcons vs. Bucknell football game on Saturday, August 30th, at Falcon Stadium in the U.S. Air Force Academy. The game kicks off at 1:30 PM and promises to be a thrilling experience for the whole family.
Falcon Stadium is known for its electric atmosphere and strong sense of community. As you cheer on the Falcons for their 2025 season opener, you’ll feel the rush of excitement, making it an unforgettable way to spend your holiday weekend.
This is more than just a game—it’s a family-friendly event that celebrates sportsmanship, teamwork, and some good old American football. Whether you’re a die-hard Falcons fan or just looking for a fun way to celebrate the weekend, you’ll have an incredible time. Get ready for tailgating, wave that foam finger, and make this Labor Day weekend a touchdown!
Location: Falcon Stadium, U.S. Air Force Academy CO
Date: Saturday, August 30, 2025
Time: 1:30 PM
Cost: Varies
Labor Day Lift-Off Standup Paddleboarding (SUP)
Looking for a unique and adventurous way to celebrate Labor Day this year? End your summer with a splash by paddleboarding on Prospect Lake! Join UpaDowna during the 2025 Labor Day Lift Off for an hour of stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). Perfect for all skill levels, this event provides all the essential equipment you need. The meetup spot is at the northwest corner of Prospect Lake in Memorial Park—easy to find, though parking may be limited due to the festivities.
Whether you're flying solo, bringing a date, or making it a family outing, the cost is $20 per SUP, and our 11ft boards can accommodate up to 2 participants. Children are welcome! Kids under 12 are recommended to ride with an adult, and children 5 and under must have another rider onboard.
Be sure to wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet, bring sun protection, and strap on some sandals or water shoes. UpaDowna also provides small dry bags for your keys and cell phone. Make your 2025 Labor Day weekend unforgettable with a paddleboarding adventure on Prospect Lake!
Location: 427 Prospect Lake Dr., Colorado Springs, CO 80906 (Boat House on the northwest side of Prospect Lake)
Date and Time: Saturday–Sunday, August 30–31, 2025, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Cost: $20 per SUP for 1 hour (includes all equipment). 11ft SUPs can accommodate up to 2 participants per board.
Reservations: Recommended; walk-ups available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Festivals & Arts
Commonwheel Artists Labor Day Art Festival
Commonwheel Artists Labor Day Art Festival is an annual event in Manitou Springs, Colorado, near Colorado Springs. Since its inception in 1974, the festival has aimed to celebrate and showcase a variety of art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, jewelry, and more. Organized by the Commonwheel Artists Co-op, this event has a community-centered ethos, allowing local and regional artists to present their works to the public. Over the years, the festival has evolved into a much-anticipated event that attracts thousands of visitors yearly. In addition to art displays, the festival often features live music, food vendors, and interactive art activities for children, making it a family-friendly occasion. Its long-standing tradition and commitment to artistic excellence make the Commonwheel Artists Labor Day Art Festival a significant cultural highlight in the Colorado Springs area.
Location: Memorial Park, 502 Manitou Avenue, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
Date: Saturday, August 30 – Monday, September 1, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cost: Free
Activities include:
- Showcasing fine art and handmade crafts
- Opportunities to meet and interact with artists
- Live music, food vendors, and family-friendly fun
Monu-Palooza Festival
Looking for a spectacular way to bid farewell to summer? Don’t miss the 9th annual Monu-Palooza Festival, happening on Sunday, August 31, 2025, from 11:45 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Limbach Park in Monument, CO. This year’s celebration brings back the lively street fair along Front Street, showcasing local businesses and family-friendly activities.
As always, you’ll find plenty of food truck favorites — from sweet treats like Lori Lynn’s Cookies and Cream to savory bites from vendors such as German Pretzel Kings. The music lineup promises an eclectic mix of returning favorites and fresh talent from across Colorado.
Tickets start at around $18 in advance (prices may vary by vendor) and are available online. Be sure to bring your camping chairs, sunscreen, and plenty of energy for a day of food, music, and community fun. With something for everyone, Monu-Palooza 9.0 is the perfect end-of-summer celebration!
Location: Limbach Park, Monument, CO
Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025 • 11:45 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Tickets: Advance tickets start around $18 • Day-of tickets $25
Heritage & Family Fun
Labor Day Vintage Baseball
The tradition of playing vintage baseball on Labor Day at Historic Rock Ledge Ranch in Colorado Springs is a unique way to celebrate the holiday while stepping back in time. The event aims to recreate the experience of baseball as it was played in the 19th century, complete with period-appropriate uniforms, equipment, and rules. Participants often use terminology from the era, and the setting at Historic Rock Ledge Ranch provides a picturesque and historically accurate backdrop for the games. This family-friendly event is part of the ranch's larger mission to educate the public about the history and culture of the Pikes Peak region. Over the years, the vintage baseball game has become a staple of Labor Day celebrations in Colorado Springs, drawing locals and tourists interested in history, baseball, or simply looking for a unique way to spend the holiday.
Location: Rock Ledge Ranch, 3105 Gateway Rd, Colorado Springs
Date: Monday, September 1, 2025
Time: Grounds open at 10:00 a.m., first pitch at 1:00 p.m.
Cost: Adults $8, Seniors $5, Youth (3–17) $4, Children 2 & under Free, Military Discount $5
Sports & Community
The Orangetheory 5K at Labor Day Lift-Off
The Orangetheory 5K at Labor Day Lift-Off is a featured event within the larger Colorado Springs Labor Day Lift-Off festival. Sponsored by Orangetheory Fitness, this 5K takes place on Sunday, August 31, 2025, just before the morning balloon launch. Runners and walkers alike get to enjoy a healthy, fun activity set against the breathtaking backdrop of hot air balloons ascending into the Colorado Springs sky. The race attracts a wide mix of participants, from fitness enthusiasts to families seeking a unique Labor Day experience. Many enjoy the festive atmosphere, with race-themed gear and even creative costumes adding to the fun. The Orangetheory 5K continues to be a popular addition to the festival’s lineup and offers a memorable way to kick off the day’s celebrations.
Location: 1605 E Pikes Peak Ave Colorado Springs, CO US 80910
Date: Sunday, August 31, 2025
Registration Cost: Varies based on registration date
Packet Pickup: Orangetheory Fitness locations in Colorado Springs
Event Schedule: Packet pickup, pre-run stretch, race start at 9:00 a.m.
Parking: Free for 5K runners on a first-come, first-served basis
Nexus Community Fitness Labor Day Workout & BBQ
Looking for the perfect mix of fitness and fun this Labor Day? Join Nexus Community Fitness for their annual Labor Day Workout & BBQ on Monday, September 1st, 2025. The morning kicks off with a high-energy workout from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, open to all fitness levels. Afterward, refuel with a delicious BBQ from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, featuring hamburgers, hotdogs, veggie burgers, and plenty of sides. Whether you come for the sweat, the food, or both, it’s a great way to celebrate the holiday with friends and community.
Location: Nexus Community Fitness, 1026 South Tejon St., Colorado Springs
Date: Monday, September 1, 2025
Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Cost: $20
Food: Hotdogs, hamburgers, veggie tray, and more
Niche & Adventure
Labor Day Weekend! Durango! Four Corners Motorcycle Rally
Motorcycle enthusiasts looking for an epic way to celebrate Labor Day weekend in 2025 won’t want to miss this ride! Sponsored by the Never Dead Riders, the journey kicks off at 8:00 AM from Phillips 66 in Monument, with a second KSU at 8:30 AM from Rudy's on Hwy 24. Riders will cruise through some of Colorado’s most scenic landscapes, making this the perfect holiday adventure on two wheels.
Location: Phillips 66, 534 CO-105, Monument, CO 80132, USA
Date and Time: Friday–Sunday, August 29–31, 2025
Kickoff: 8:00 AM at Phillips 66 | 8:30 AM KSU at Rudy's on Hwy 24
Cost: Varies; check the website for registration details
Note: Reservations are required and can be made on the Never Dead Riders website.
From colorful hot air balloons to live music, art festivals, football games, and family fun, Labor Day in Colorado Springs 2025 is packed with ways to celebrate. However you choose to spend the holiday, it’s the perfect time to relax, connect with community, and bid farewell to summer in the Pikes Peak region.
Wishing you a safe and happy Labor Day from all of us at Springs Homes!
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