Thousands watch balloons fly in Canon City

Hot air balloons filled the sky of Canon City Saturday to kick off the second annual Create Canon City Balloon Classic.

Thousands were there to watch the event. Colleen Johnson said she can’t think of a better way for her family to be remembered.

Her balloon is named after her two grandmothers who passed away. A Marine Corps flag is waving on the side of the balloon in memory of her brother who passed away. Johnson’s brother was in the Marine Corps.

She said Memorial Day weekend means much more than just three days off from work.

“Words can’t describe the meaning of them and how much they mean to me,” she said.

George Herman, who is one of the organizers of the event, said one of the group’s goals for the event is honor the veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice.

“It’s important for us to put the perspective on the weekend, not just the barbecue and balloons, there is more meaning behind it,” he said.

The event features 16 hot air balloons and will be happening through Monday.