Updated for 2024. 

Every autumn since 1974, the Southern sky transforms into a spectacular display of color during the Carolina Balloon Festival. This event attracts visitors from all over the country, who come together to enjoy three days of fun, entertainment, and excitement! You won’t want to miss the festivities this year, so keep reading to get the details on the many ways to have a blast.

2024 Carolina Balloon Festival

Watch the balloons lift off

This festival takes place on the 3rd weekend of every October, with opening ceremonies on Friday afternoon and closing ceremonies on Sunday evening. Throughout the weekend, there are a total of 5 mass flights. Morning flyovers on Saturday and Sunday morning give the pilots a chance to show their skills, competing in a series of accuracy competitions just after the morning Mass Ascension. At dusk, the balloons return to the festival grounds during the fantastic Balloon Glow landing. In addition to the classic hot air balloons, an impressive display of special shapes balloons take flight at the fest, from rocket ships to classic cartoon characters.

Take to the skies!

If you’re looking for an up-close and personal balloon experience, plenty of pilots will take you for a lift! Tether rides are just $10 for parents and $5 for kids, perfect for those looking to get a stunning view of the festival grounds. If you want the full balloon ride experience, you can book a flight with one of the festival-approved pilots. If you’d prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, visitors of all ages will have a blast climbing into the colorful walk-in balloon. In the afternoon, head to the launch site and mingle with some incredible Balloon Fest pilots.

Adventures and activities for the kids

The Kids Zone is a great place to let the little ones roam. They can run and play on the inflatable slides, exciting jump houses, and a humongous trampoline. For the brave at heart, the daring bungee jump provides plenty of thrills! Free magic shows run throughout the weekend, dazzling young spectators with mysterious tricks and illusions, and the Sunday-only circus provides plenty of fun for the whole family.

Eat, drink, and jam out

There’s plenty for grown-ups to enjoy at the balloon festival, too! Relax and grab a drink at the Wine and Craft Beer Garden, or choose from dozens of delectable bites from the food vendors over on Eat Street. Browse through the eclectic variety of unique trinkets and handmade goods on display at the Marketplace and Artisan Village. Balloon Fest also features a wide variety of musical performances between their 2 stages all weekend long, so check the schedule to ensure you don’t miss your favorite acts!

Start planning!

If you’re ready to experience the wonder and excitement of the Carolina Balloon Fest, just visit their website to purchase your tickets and start planning a fun-filled weekend in Statesville.

Just 30 minutes away from the festival grounds, Davidson Village Inn is the perfect place to relax after an action-packed day. With 18 pristine guestrooms to choose from, we’re sure to have accommodations to suit your needs. Start your morning off right with a delicious breakfast, and sleep in luxury every night between our Comphy brand sheets.

Rooms book quickly for special events, so now is the time to start planning your North Carolina getaway. Book your stay with Davidson Village Inn today to guarantee you get the best lodging in the area!