Media Registration

Thanks for your interest in joining us for the 50th Carolina BalloonFest! 

​The countdown to the third weekend in October is underway as the Carolina BalloonFest will be celebrating our 50th festival on October 17, 18, and 19. 

We are excited to welcome qualified media professionals to Carolina BalloonFest! Media credentials provide exclusive access to cover the event, including a parking pass and media admission. Additionally, media representatives may have the opportunity to sign up for balloon rides, depending on pilot availability.

Who Qualifies for Media Credentials?

We welcome media professionals from broadcast, print, photography, and digital platforms who are actively working on event coverage for a larger audience. To qualify, you must:

• Be a member of the working media, covering the event for an established platform
• Submit a confirmed story assignment or proof of prior event coverage
• Have credentials issued based on media team approval

Due to the high demand for media access, credentials are limited and will be granted on a case-by-case basis. Submission of an application does not guarantee approval.

Important Notes:

• Media credentials are not automatically granted—all applications are reviewed before approval.
• Possession of any press credential or ID does not guarantee free access to the event. Only approved media representatives will be added to the admission list at all event gates.
• Drones are prohibited unless pre-approved by event organizers.

While we encourage professional and aspiring photographers to capture the magic of Carolina BalloonFest, media credentials are reserved for working journalists and reporters with assigned event coverage. If you are a photographer or videographer interested in attending, we kindly ask that you support our mission by purchasing an admission ticket.

Our Media Team will review applications and notify approved media representatives via email with final access details.

Thank you for your interest in covering Carolina BalloonFest—we look forward to working with you!

Apply for media access to the Festival. Post festival projects will be considered.  For review, please fill out the application below when it becomes available in August.