Carolina BalloonFest Night Glow – When Tongues of Fire Light the Night!

Carolina BalloonFest Night Glow 10/20/12 © Katrena

Lots of folks head out the gate at the Statesville Regional Airport after the balloons lift off and sail away in a majestic array of colorful character in the crisp October breeze. But the evening ascension is only part of the fun at the balloon festival on Saturday. The night glow is a special treat for those who stay after dusk. I believe the Balloon Night Glow is only scheduled for the Saturday night portion of the balloon festival in Iredell County at this point.

Night Show at Statesville Hot Air Balloon Festival © H.M.W.

As the sky begins to paint its beautiful natural colors via the Piedmont sunset, some balloon pilots and their teams begin to return to the airport after floating above the Autumn palette. The chase vehicles and crews have gone out to follow their team and have carefully packed envelopes, gondolas, and other supplies after the landing, but these teams are not headed home. They are preparing for one last show of the day.

Balloon Glow at Night © Katrena

The atmosphere is a bit more laid back as each team picks a favorite open spot. A few people may head down to the field to meet some of the balloon enthusiasts. Spectators tend to spread blankets along the side of the hill while the kids may find it exciting to work their way up and down the steep areas. Everyone waits for dusk with expectancy. Yes, it is worth the wait.

Balloon Envelope Glow at Night © Katrena

North Carolina's Autumn night sky might still be dappled with a few lightening bugs, or fireflies for those of you reading who aren't from around these parts. But these lights come from fire, and it is not the fire Southern folks might enjoy as they roast marshmallows or hot dogs over an open flame. These fires are only lit after a wind storm...well, actually, the wind comes from a fan that blows the envelope open. After all, no balloonist wants to catch his or her ware on fire!

Night Balloon Fest in Iredell County © H.M.W.

As the balloons once again rise, something amazing happens as darkness closes around the field. As the flames rise, the balloon starts to glow. Some look like huge lanterns, aglow in a bright blaze of yellow, orange, red, or white. Others illuminate darker colors of green, blue, purple, and even black.

Statesville BalloonFest Night Glow in North Carolina © H.M.W.

My kids remarked that the nighttime Statesville Balloon Glow is sort of like a fireworks show, minus the loud booms. I agree. The flames create an unusual serenade as onlookers are dazzled. One balloon will flicker on for a few moments and as it begins to darken, another balloon begins to brighten the field. After most of the balloons are upright, someone starts counting down. My kids and I join in. "5...4...3...2...1!"

Fun Outdoor Activities in October © Katrena

Wow! All the crews begin to coordinate a huge glow as they light up their hot air balloons simultaneously. I hope the people who design and create balloons get the opportunity to see their work illuminated at night. It is almost like a spotlight on a crazy quilt. Some are tall and thin while others are wide and shorter. Each balloon is accompanied by a special crew with an amazing story. My kids loved them all!

Hot Air Balloon Glow in the Dark © Katrena

Many thanks to those awesome balloon crews who came back to provide the night-time balloon show. Fuel is not cheap and folks don't ride in the balloons as they are held down during the glow. If you guys could have seen the looks on my kids' faces, you would definitely know that those efforts were absolutely appreciated.

Unusual Autumn Family Activities © Katrena

When a balloon pilot takes off during daylight hours, he or she plans to follow the wind and enjoy the ride. With a night show, the pilots provide a beautiful show for all who wish to see. I asked my kids which they liked best – the evening balloon ascension or the night glow. The answer was unanimous: BOTH! Find out more about Statesville's Carolina BalloonFest at their official web site. Read about the daytime balloon show and find more of Katrena's articles at Travel NC With Kids.