The Carolina BalloonFest is always the third full Weekend in October!

The following are this year's date and times: 

FRIDAY, October 17, 2025
Gate Time: Open 3 PM ~ Close 8:30 PM

SATURDAY, October 18, 2025
Gate Time: Open 7 AM ~ Close 8:30 PM
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SUNDAY, October 19, 2025
Gate Time: Open 7 AM ~ Close 6 PM

Tickets are on sale on April 17, 2025!

Please visit our parking page for more details.

Hot Air Balloon Flights are scheduled to launch early morning & late afternoon. Tether Rides are scheduled various times throughout the day(s).

There are 5 flights scheduled throughout the 3-day weekend. 

Carolina BalloonFest is a rain or shine event, ensuring a variety of activities and entertainment. However, please be aware that balloon operations require specific weather conditions. Wind speed, visibility, and precipitation all play important roles in determining whether it's safe to fly. While we strive to offer balloon experiences whenever possible, safety is our top priority. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility, as the weather can be unpredictable. In the unlikely event that inclement weather requires the event to be suspended, please follow announcements and instructions.

The “Balloonmeister” and pilots use a flag system which is near the launch field. What do the flags on the launch field mean? RED means that the field is closed for free flight. YELLOW means flights are on hold. GREEN means the field is open for free flight.

Pilots prepare to inflate and ascend from the festival field during an ascension. Three weekend ascensions are scheduled on Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons from 4-5:30 p.m. 

​A flyover is when pilots launch their balloons from remote and strategic areas around the Statesville area and navigate the winds to fly over the festival field while guests watch the pilots accomplish competition tasks Two weekend flyovers are scheduled on Saturday and Sunday morning. The launch window is 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. 

Yes, please visit our ticket page for more information. Tickets go on sale on April 17, 2025. Balloon flights are not included in the event ticket.

On the Sunday of the festival, all active and retired military with a valid military ID get free entry into the festival. 

Bring cameras, lawn chairs and blankets and small umbrellas to bask in the beautiful Carolina autumn weather. Patrons may also bring unopened bottled water and snacks in a small bag. **However, all bags will be checked upon entry. 

Large hard-shell coolers, alcohol, glass, weapons, including any knife with a blade longer than 4 inches, drones, pop-up canopies, large umbrellas.

Visit our volunteer page for more information. We would love to have you as a volunteer! 

Our festival has a no-refund policy. We do our best to provide our patrons with an overall excellent experience however as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, we do not provide refunds.

Yes!  As a 501(c)(3) non-profit, a portion of all ticket proceeds are donated to community non-profits and agencies on a yearly basis. So every time you buy a ticket to the Carolina BalloonFest, you are making a difference in the community. To learn more about the festival, visit our about page.

Our festival's Lost & Found is located in the Guest Services Tent. If the event is over, please reach out to info@carolinaballoonfest.com.