Carolina BalloonFest in Statesville NC in October

Statesville Carolina BalloonFest © Katrena

A splash of bright colors mesmerizes children and adults as balloons take to the sky in Statesville Regional Airport for the annual BalloonFest in October. This event, started in 1972, beckons balloon enthusiasts, pilots, vendors, and families in and near the Piedmont area of North Carolina.

Balloon Rally in Iredell County NC (Now Called BalloonFest) © Katrena

Statesville hosts America's second oldest hot air balloon festival. The 2012 39th Statesville BalloonFest will be held on October 19 (3 p.m. to 8 p.m.), 20 (7 a.m. to 8 p.m.), and 21 (7 a.m. to 6 p.m.). Nick and Chase Donner, Don Cline, Sally Mazzocchi, Louise Egerton, and Marsha Treacy will be among some of the pilots at this year's Iredell County balloon rally event.

North Carolina Balloon Festival © Katrena

Parking is limited, and early arrival is recommended. Off site parking includes discount tickets and a free shuttle that will run every 15 minutes. Proceeds will help benefit Purple Heart Homes and the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Statesville.

October Fun Family Activities in NC © Katrena

A variety of activities are offered at the balloon festival, including music, activities for the kids, and beer and wine tasting. Of course, the activity that draws the most attention is watching and anxiously awaiting the launch/landing of over 50 beautiful balloons near dawn and dusk!

Hot Air Balloon Rides in NC © Katrena

Those who dare to ride might check out opportunities for tethered rides or even go up with a pilot.
The view from the ground is a great photo opportunity. Seeing so many hot air balloons rise into the sky is quite a memorable experience.

Statesville BalloonFest in NC © Katrena

Visit the Carolina BalloonFest web site for ticket prices, a map, parking information, links for booking a balloon ride, balloon photos, a schedule of events, a memorial tribute to Ed Ristaino, and more.

Balloons at Statesville Airport © Katrena

See balloon pictures and stories about the 2012 Carolina BalloonFest. See Katrena's article about the Night Glow Show. Find more of Katrena's articles at Travel NC With Kids and Love 2 Travel With Kids.