October 17th - 19th
Congratulations to our Winners . . .
Rachelle, Shelia & Bethany!
The 41st Annual Carolina BalloonFest takes flight October 17-19, 2014 at the Statesville Regional Airport where over 50 breath-taking hot air balloons and 4 unique special shapes will launch and decorate the skies of Iredell County. The traditional Balloon Glow will light up Saturday evening to thrill festival guests.
Although hot air balloons only take flight after dawn and near dusk when the thermal atmosphere is most stable, tethered balloon rides are anchored to offer an abbreviated sensation of flight when elevated nearly 100 ft. above the ground. Weather permitting, hot air flights and tethered balloon rides are available to purchase direct with participating pilots throughout the weekend.
Throughout the weekend of flights, many pilots participate in Sanctioned Competitions. On Saturday and Sunday mornings, balloons fly over the venue and spectators can observe the pilots’ skillfully complete field tasks such as marker drops and a pole ring toss. Pilots at Carolina BalloonFest compete for points to enhance their standings in the national Hot Air Competition Division. A new feature this year is the Pilot Meet & Greet on Saturday and Sunday afternoons when select pilots and crews will set up their gondolas for an hour on the field for guest encounters.
Come Early and Stay Late! In addition to the evening mass ascensions from the venue and morning sanctioned competitions over the venue, there are various activities for the entire family. Register to run with the balloons on Sunday morning in the second annual 5K and Kids Fun Run. Explore the ever-active Kids Zone with inflatables, a bungy jumper, rock wall and magicians. Enjoy entertainment on two stages. Experience the NC Wines & Craft Beer Tasting to complement all the outdoor festivities on Saturday and Sunday.
Carolina BalloonFest soars to benefit American Cancer Society (ACS) Relay for Life of Statesville, a signature annual event held each spring to celebrate those who have fought cancer, remember those lost to cancer and raise funds to create awareness and put an end to the disease. A percentage of proceeds also benefit community non-profits who volunteer at the festival.
Friday, October 17 3:00pm – 8:30pm
Saturday, October 18 7:00am – 8:30pm
Sunday, October 19 7:00am – 6:00pm
To learn more, visit CarolinaBalloonFest.com and join us at facebook.com/carolinaballoonfest.
Congratulations to our Winners....
Rachelle, Shelia & Bethany!
They each won 2 passes for admission.
Enjoy the BalloonFest!
