Daily editionSunday, August 31st, 2025
Good morning, Colorado Springs.
The Daily Colorado Springs Team
Here’s your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 31st of August.
Community
Labor Day Lift Off in Colorado Springs was adjusted after chilly weather kept balloons grounded Saturday—today the park opens at 5:15 a.m. with a 7 a.m. Balloon Lift Off and several concerts.
Monday will start with an early park opening and another Balloon Lift Off with additional performances.
11 NewsRead more
A Colorado Springs family was reunited with 60-year-old wedding photos when a TikTok creator in Mexico City posted film found in an antique shop during their grandparents’ diamond anniversary celebrations.
The images show the wedding day of Evangelina Farías de Cruz and her husband on May 15 and have helped the family relive cherished memories—connecting them to a special legacy.
Colorado Public RadioRead more
Photos from this year's Labor Day Lift Off celebration in Memorial Park have been featured on koaa.com and local residents are invited to send in more photos.
Fort Carson soldier Sergeant First Class David Hong (who battled stage 4 colon cancer) raised over $50K in three days for experimental treatment and donated the funds to help service members and veterans fight cancer.
KOAA News5Read more
Culture
At the 49th Labor Day Liftoff festival, Saturday's hot air balloon launch was canceled because the breezy weather and lightning forced a change, although the U.S. Air Force skydiving demonstration took place at 9 a.m. If weather improves, organizers will resume balloon flights early today and on Monday morning, with another balloon glow planned for Sunday night.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Education
Manya Whitaker began her tenure as Colorado College’s 15th president after serving a year as interim leader — she said she will maintain the school’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion even as other universities reduce these programs.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Government
Some Front Range cities, including Colorado Springs, have refused to enforce new state laws that allow extra homes and relaxed parking rules to boost affordable housing — a move that raises concerns about neighborhood change.
Gov. Jared Polis said state money will be at risk if cities do not comply — with his decision coming on Oct 15.
Colorado Springs GazetteRead more
Colorado Springs Events
2025 Recover OUTloud Music Festival
Monday, September 1st, 2025 · 12-8 p.m. — 4615 Northpark Dr, Colorado Springs, CO — Tickets on sale — Celebrate National Recovery Month with headliners and local food trucks at this vibrant music festival.
Summer Concert Series
Tuesday, September 2nd, 2025 · 5:30-7:30 p.m. — Bancroft Park — Free entry — Enjoy free live music from the Peak Big Band in the heart of Old Colorado City.
Hillside Gardens Summer Concert Series
Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025 · 5-8:30 p.m. — Hillside Gardens & Event Center — $18 per ticket — Enjoy an evening of local talent in a stunning garden setting with food and drinks.
Small Acts, Big Impact
Thursday, September 4th, 2025 · 5-7:30 p.m. — Axe and the Oak Whiskey House — Free entry — Explore how simple actions can lead to significant changes in communities and beyond.
Americana Fridays: CountyWyde
Friday, September 5th, 2025 · 4-7 p.m. — The Mining Exchange — Free entry — Enjoy lively Americana music with a bluegrass twist and community spirit.
Downtown Walking Tour: Historic Architecture & Murals
Saturday, September 6th, 2025 · 10:00-11:30 a.m. — BLK MGK Coffee — $15 — Explore the artistry and history of Colorado Springs' urban landscape with expert guides.
Dahlia Brunch
Sunday, September 7th, 2025 · 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Gather Mountain Blooms — Reservations recommended — Experience a relaxing Sunday brunch among blooming flowers with mimosas and a private flower picking experience.
Colorado Springs Senior Expo
Monday, September 8th, 2025 · 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. — COS City Hub — Free entry — Connect with local organizations and enjoy prize drawings, refreshments and health screenings.
Tuesday Vibes: Sara Van Hecke
Tuesday, September 9th, 2025 · 5-8 p.m. — The Mining Exchange — Free entry — Experience a blend of indie-folk and jazz from singer-songwriter Sara Van Hecke in a cozy bar setting.
Hillside Garlic Festival
Sunday, September 14th, 2025 · 9 AM – 2 PM — Hillside Gardens & Event Center — No Entry Fee — Experience the bold flavors of garlic with unique varietals and delicious bites in a beautiful setting.