Cortez 140 Events

The City of Cortez will host several signature events in 2026 to celebrate the 140th anniversary of the city’s platting including the annual 4th of July celebration and the Balloon Rendezvous in August.

Photo of a crowd of people looking at a stage in the park.

For more information on events, or to host an event in Cortez, visit: https://www.cortezco.gov/709/Events

Cortez 140 Events

May is for History & the Birds

The first two weekends in May will shine with three different events celebrating the incredible outdoors, incredible mountain biking opportunities, and rich cultural heritage in Cortez, Colorado.

Plan your weekend now! Click the links below to learn more:

Cortez 4th of July Celebration 

The City of Cortez will host its annual 4th of July Celebration. Vendors interested in participating can learn more at this link. 

Cortez Balloon Rendezvous (August 7 – 9)

Balloons take to the skies of Cortez the second weekend of August. From balloon launches every morning, to the beloved evening balloon glow this event is fun for the entire family. This year, the Balloon Glow on Friday night will feature the Stories in the Sky drone show celebrating USA 250 – Colorado 150 – Cortez 140. Prior to the glow there will be a specific Cortez 140 celebration.

How to Get Involved with Events

Businesses and other organizations are encouraged to market specifically around the events listed above. Using strategic key words in social media posts and a website may help to encourage visitors coming to Cortez for an event to visit that business. Check out this page for ideas on how to get involved. 

Business owners and nonprofit leaders may also follow the City's Facebook page and/or sign-up for the City list-serve to learn about event opportunities and other City initiatives. 

More Event Information