Lee and Karen Duquette, with their granddaughter Kristen and Rachel
at The Hot Air Balloon Festival
260 Hangar Drive
Statesville, North Carolina |
October
18, 2025
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At
this time, Carolina BalloonFest is the second-oldest hot air balloon
festival in the world and has been running for 50 years. The Statesville-based
balloon festival brings in close to 40,000 people to Statesville from
all over the country. Balloons fly all weekend (weather permitting).
It began in 1974 as was then know as the National Balloon Rally.
This was a 3-day event in 2025. Lee and Karen Duquette only attended
on one day. Individual day passes started at $15 for adults and $10
for Children ages 7 to 12. Kids 6 and under were free. The cost of admission
goes back to the community through non profits that help provide volunteers
for the events. It also cost $15 - $25 to park on this date. Handicap
and Motorcycle parking was free on this date.
It is advised to bring a blanket or chairs. There was a playground
(Kids Zone) for children, plus live music, a Wine Garden with an extra
charge, Food Vendors, plus porta-potties. Please check their website
for further information each year.
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You
may view these sites in any order you choose, but it is easier to go in
order because each page will lead to the next site. This is a 4-page section
of Hot Air Balloons |
Hot Air Balloon Ascension -
Introduction to some of the balloons - started at 4:30 p.m. on this date
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NOTE: After
the initial ascension of a few hot air balloons, there was a very long
break time, DUring which people could shop, buy food, take their kids
to the playground, or just relax and listen to music. Lee and Karen Duquette
enjoyed the time with their granddaughter and her friend. They all browsed
the booths and enjoyed the very loud music. |
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There are several
travel exploration choices below. This does not have to be a linear site,
so you may choose what and where you want to investigate next.
More will be posted HERE as Lee and Karen Duquette explore other places
and events.
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