The longest running balloon festival on the East Coast takes place in Statesville.

The 34th annual festival‚ now known as the Carolina Balloon Fest‚ is set for Oct. 26-28‚ 2007‚ at Statesville Regional Airport. The weekend extravaganza is a family-oriented event. Highlights include the sight of 50 colorful balloons floating through the air.

There’s also a wine festival‚ live musical entertainment‚ children’s fun zone and NASCAR pit-crew challenges. Admission is $5.00‚ and parking is free.