This Old-School Colorado Town Fair And Hot Air Balloon Launch Is A Great Way To Kick Off Summer

Can you believe that summer is right around the corner? We cannot, so we have already started looking for ways to celebrate everyone's favorite season! It's time for all kinds of fun Colorado festivals. Are you ready? Then make plans to attend this small-town Colorado balloon fair and festival that is the epitome of summer: The Erie Balloon Launch in Colorado

Welcome to the annual Erie Balloon Launch and Town Fair!

Taking place the first weekend of May each year, the Erie Balloon Launch and Town Fair is the unofficial Colorado summer kick-off, thanks, in part, to the early-morning balloon launches.

"The Rocky Mountains are clearly visible in the distance as the sky comes alive with all the colors of the rainbow," teases the Erie Balloon Launch and Town Fair, which begins each morning with its namesake hot air balloon launch from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m.

While the hot air balloons are reason enough to visit, the Erie Balloon Launch and Town Fair also feature a small-town festival complete with 200+ vendors and food booths.

In addition to all of the above, the Balloon Launch and Town Fair also boasts a car show, beer garden, live music, arts, crafts, and other surprises.

As if you needed another reason to visit (and love!) this summertime event, admission and parking are both free.

To learn more about the highly-anticipated Erie Balloon Launch and Town Fair - including a full schedule of events - please visit the Erie Chamber of Commerce's website.

The Erie Balloon Launch and Town Fair takes place in historic downtown Erie.

Take a look at all the colorful balloons at this festival:

Have you been to the Erie Balloon Launch in Colorado? Do you have a favorite event, attraction, or restaurant that you would like to see featured on Only in Colorado? Nominate it here! For even more of our favorite Centennial State festivals, check out The 11 Best Small-Town Colorado Festivals You’ve Never Heard Of.