Media Information

Media Application Information

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.

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!

Carolina BalloonFest Profile

One of Iredell Counties largest event is the 3-day Carolina BalloonFest at the Statesville Regional Airport. Our 32-acres are filled with live entertainment, a kids' play zone, tethered rides (weather/wind permitting), great festival food, North Carolina wines garden, artisan market, local/regional business vendors and special attractions, like the Friday and Saturday evening Balloon Glow. Balloon pilots and crews gather from around the country to participate in Carolina BalloonFest during 3 late afternoon mass ascensions and 2 early morning flyovers (weather-permitting).

The Carolina BalloonFest also serves as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, donating a portion of our proceeds annually to local non-profits and organizations.

Media Updates. Our website is the best resource for current information. We also post festival news & updates via social media: 

Photo Requests. Please email media@CarolinaBalloonFest.com