City of Statesville declares October 17-19, 2025 as Carolina BalloonFest Weekend

City of Statesville, North Carolina

Office of the Mayor

Proclamation

Carolina BalloonFest 50th Anniversary

October 17 - 19, 2025

WHEREAS, the City of Statesville has gained international recognition through its long-standing association with ballooning, led by pioneers such as balloon craftsman Tracy Barnes and pilots Don Cline and Bill Meadows; and

WHEREAS, more than 25 licensed balloon pilots and students call the great Statesville area home, strengthening our community's proud place in ballooning history; and

WHEREAS, National Balloon Rally Charities, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit doing business as Carolina BalloonFest, continues the heritage of hot air ballooning in Iredell County, spotlighting the community of Statesville while donating a portion of festival proceeds to local nonprofit organizations - contributions that have totaled more than one million dollars; and

WHEREAS, Carolina BalloonFest, the second oldest hot air balloon festival in the United States, has brought thousands of visitors to Statesville each October to enjoy mass ascensions, balloon glows, entertainment, and community fellowship; and

WHEREAS, 2025 marks the 50th Anniversary of Carolina BalloonFest, celebrating five decades of ballooning tradition, charitable giving, and community pride;

Now, Therefor, I, Constantine H. Kutteh, Mayor of the City of Statesville, do hereby proclaim October 17-19, 2024 as Carolina BalloonFest Weekend in the City of Statesville, North Carolina, and encourage all citizens and visitors to join in celebrating this golden anniversary.

IN WINTESS WHEREOF I have set my Hand and caused the Great Seal of the City of Statesville to be affixed this 6th day of October 2025.

Constantine H. Kutteh, Mayor

View the proclamation here