This year marks the 29^th annual Telluride Balloon Festival.  While this is one of Telluride’s smaller festivals, it is arguably the most beautiful festival. 

If the weather cooperates, you will have a chance to see a dozen or more balloons launch from Town Park and sail over downtown Telluride.  Balloons launch between 6:45-7 AM.  If you help out with the launch, there’s a decent chance you’ll get a free ride. 

For those interested in a free ride, arrive at Town Park around 6 AM and ask for Marilyn Branch.  Marilyn will assign you to a balloon and you will be given direction on how to help.  Just remember, the balloons will only launch if the weather is very calm.  If the weather doesn’t cooperate, there’s still a chance that the balloons won't inflate.

On the last day of the festival, many of the balloons will be set up right on Main Street (Colorado Avenue).   The inflated balloons squeeze between buildings, and when fired up, the balloons glow.  Main Street closes as 6pm and balloon inflation begins at 8pm.  The Main Street GLO continues until 9:30pm. 

This is a totally free and unique festival.  Bring your camera!