Where to Watch Grand Junction’s Drone Show for Free

Grand Junction’s America 250/ Colorado 150 drone show was postponed in July because of ongoing wildfires. The make-up day is Saturday, October 10, following the Water Lights at Night event at the Las Colonias Butterfly Pond.

The drone show will follow the Water Lights lantern launch, but you don't necessarily have to squeeze into the crowd around Butterfly Pond to see it. Here are a few options.

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What Is Water Lights at Night In Grand Junction?

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Water Lights at Night, hosted by Grand Junction Parks and Recreation, features hundreds of personalized tea light lanterns released onto the Butterfly Pond at dusk (6:45 p.m.). The event starts at 5 p.m. with food trucks and music, followed by the launch. If lantern kits are available, you can order them here. A limited number will be available at the event. The city says the special Colorado 150/America 250 drone show will follow once it is completely dark.

Top Three Picks: Best Views of the Grand Junction Drone Show

The drone show is part of Stories in the Sky, a statewide Colorado 150/America 250 series bringing nearly 150 drone shows to communities across Colorado. Here are three options for viewing the show:

• Las Colonias Landing: The surrounding park, pedestrian bridge, and boat landing are the three closest places to the Butterfly Pond. If you are not a part of the launch, these are the next best spots to occupy.
• Eagle Rim Park: The park and skate area sit on the bluff above the Colorado River, giving viewers an elevated view across the river toward Las Colonias.
• Amphitheater Parking Areas: Several parking lots surround the Amphitheater at Las Colonias and are within a block or two of the Butterfly Pond.
• Float the Colorado River: A well-timed kayak or raft ride down the Colorado River means you don't need a place to park.

John Denver Will Be Part of the Drone Show Experience

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The Stories in the Sky drone show will have a true Colorado soundtrack, as the city says it will synchronize the show to John Denver. You can bookmark this link to listen to the music during the show: https://www.fireflymusic.app/grandjunction?utm_source=chatgpt.com.

That means the best viewing spot isn't necessarily just about what you can see. Where you stand, what you can hear, and whether you arrive early enough to get comfortable could all change the experience.