Carolina BalloonFest

Posted by Linda J Bottjer Oct 14, 2007

Had I been alive in late 18th century France I would have been a willing assistant to the two Montgolfier brothers in their early hot air balloon experiments. I would have offered to hold the animal passengers for the chance to soar like a bird. So is it any wonder I am a long time devotee of hot air balloons festivals?

If releasing your soul, even if only in your imagination, is appealing to you too, join the hundreds of others at the Statesville Regional Airport for the 34th Annual Carolina BalloonFest.

Now in its fourth decade, the festival begins its climb of lightheartedness , on Friday, with a mid afternoon opening of the Kid’s Fun Zone and the 4:30PM Mass Ascension of the 50 spectacular hot air balloons.

Throughout the weekend, earth bound events also delight with plenty of musical talent like hometown recording star, Rockie Lynne and Wake Forrest University’s a cappella vocal ensemble Chi Rho. Plenty of food is available as are shopping outlets through the Artisan Village and BalloonFest Market.

With an admission at only $5.00 for everyone 6 years old and above, the price is just right for anyone's budget.

Just a word of warning – being a late sleeper will ensure missing Saturday and Sunday’s 8:00AM launch and start of competitions. Should the snooze alarm fail to rouse– do not despair as at 11:00AM and 12:00PM. respectively, the North Carolina wine tasting begins. Now ranking tenth in the nation for grape and wine production the Tar Heel state is rapidly gaining a stellar reputation among connoisseurs

You know I’ll bet on that late November day in 1783, in Paris, when the Montogolfiers launched the first humans into the heavens - wine was served too.

Trust the Carolina BalloonFest to keep history flying high!

For more information: www.carolinaballoonfest.com