By Mary Jo Coulehan | Pagosa Springs Area Chamber of Commerce
This weekend is the annual ColorFest celebration.
Three separate events hosted by the Chamber will be rolled into one weekend along with some other activities.
There will be two days of hot air balloon mass ascensions.
On Saturday, Sept. 16, there will be a mass ascension from the downtown area. The balloons will launch in the vacant field to the south of the construction area next to The Springs Resort.
Only approved vehicles will be able to access the launch site. Spectators are encouraged to park at the Overlook along U.S. 160, the parking areas close to Reservoir Hill and the Town Hall/Ross Aragon Community Center lots and view from those areas or walk to the launch site. Please do not block roads such as Hot Springs Boulevard, Apache Street and 6th Street, and obstruct traffic.
You could also view the balloons from the Riverwalk as you participate in the ColorRun/Walk hosted by Aspen House/Aspen Services. Visit https://runsignup.com/Race/CO/PagosaSprings/ColorFestColorRunWalk5K to sign up for the ColorRun/Walk. Watch the balloons and get doused with a rainbow of color as you complete the course.
The balloons will launch from the west side of town on Sunday, Sept. 17, around 8 a.m. Again, please be cognizant of not blocking streets or pulling over on either the highway or major street arteries to observe the balloons. Park in lots, not private residential driveways, and be observant and respectful of other drivers, walkers and the event.
We are honored that these hot air balloon pilots choose to come to Pagosa to add so much attraction to this annual event. They love flying in Pagosa Springs with our stunning vistas and warm hospitality. They try to be respectful of personal property and road access; however, they are subject to the whims of the winds.
We thank the community in advance for your patience on this weekend. This is truly a community event. We could not host it without the participation of our sponsors, lodgers, restaurants, brewers and the public who welcome all the visitors who come to Pagosa just for this event.
The Passport to Pagosa Wine and Food Festival on Friday night, Sept. 15, is sold out. If you would like to get on a waiting list for tickets, please call the Chamber at (970) 264-2360.
The Bands and Brews festival will be on Saturday, Sept. 16. Visit www.pagosachamber.com to purchase your tickets in advance. There will also be a balloon glow Saturday evening beginning around 7:15 p.m. in the athletic field.
More information is available at www.pagosachamber.com.
