The third weekend in September, always highly anticipated, always very exciting, always sold out events, plenty of good times for Pagosa Springs. Visitors travel from far away places to enjoy the beautiful weather and “The Colors You’ll See”.
A wonderful team of valued locals volunteer for the weekend.
It is the 37th Annual Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce ColorFest. Chamber staff have the event locked in with over 35 years of experience.
It kicks off Friday night, with the Passport to Wine Tasting. Several local restaurants provide tasty samples of their best flavors in a friendly competition for the winning dishes.
Of course, plenty of cases of wine… and the sold out crowd nearly consumed nearly every drop.
The evening is always an excellent primer for the Balloon launch early Saturday morning.
The balloon launch was delayed just a few minutes Saturday morning to allow for a low morning fog to clear. The skies opened up and the clear cool air was again perfect for launch. Over 30 balloons this year. Spectacular. The area of liftoff was rearranged this year due to construction but spectators were able to walk and view from many locations.
Super fun for families. So many pictures taken. Phone selfies, to seasoned professional photographers make it one of the most photographed events Pagosa has to offer.
The Bands Brews and Beer Tasting had another sell out crowd keeping good company with food trucks, two great bands (Bobby Miller Band and Garret LeBeau) and of course- beer. The big tent was rocking and the weather outside was just perfect for laughing with friends and meeting new ones.
The weekend finale: A Balloon Glow to mark the end of summer and beginning of Autumn.
But wait, there’s more! One more launch uptown in Pagosa Lakes. On Sunday morning, another chance to view the colorful floating bubbles. More chances to ride above the crowds in a hot air balloon. People crew, people view, people flew.
Mark your calendars for 2024…
Pagosa Springs photographer Jeff Laydon shoots people, places and products — on location and in his studio. Learn more at PagosaPhotography.com