Picture this: Massive orbiting art in the form of balloons right over your head, close enough to visualize each detail on the inflation. Carolina BalloonFest makes this amazing vision a reality each year in Statesville, North Carolina. This year, the festival falls on the breezy fall weekend of October 18 – 20. Sport or special-shaped balloon flights take place twice a day, in the morning and late afternoon. Guests are encouraged to observe at least one flight, as the takeoff is unlike anything you’ve seen before.
Although the hot air balloons are the focal point of the Carolina BalloonFest, there are many activities to partake in between flights. Eat Street is a delicious street food experience within the festival gates. And there are craft beer and wine tastings for guest enjoyment. High-flying balloon rides enable guests to float or obtain a bird’s eye view of the festivities. Guests can also shop at an artisan marketplace for local goods and treasures. Alternatively, they can kick back while watching live entertainment.
After the exciting events of a day at the BalloonFest, it only makes sense to unwind on a blanket and watch the balloons descending into the evening. On Saturday night, the Balloon Glow, our favorite event, commences. Each balloon in the sky glows from within, highlighting their designs and patterns in an orange gleam under the moonlight. It makes for a breathtaking end to the day.
