Fun Takes Flight at Annual Kite Fest!

Thu August 22, 2024

DeKalb, IL—The DeKalb Kite Fest, a beloved community tradition that began in 2005, is now in its 19th year. The DeKalb Park District is thrilled to continue this tradition and host the event on Sunday, September 8, from 11:00 am to 3:30 pm, at DeKalb Kiwanis Park at Fairview Drive and South 4th Street.  

Visitors will enjoy Kite Fest traditions such as giant inflatable kites, dancing kites high up in the sky, and a variety of fun, seasonal on-site activities, including a windsock craft with park district staff, biodegradable nature kites and origami project with local non-profit organization Kish Kids Outside. All activities will take place near the Kiwanis Park Shelter, with adjacent free parking at Kiwanis and the Sports and Recreation Center, located at 1765 South 4th Street. 

“We are thrilled to offer another successful Kite Fest and bring more free fun to the DeKalb community. This event will have festival attendees looking to the sky in amazement as these giant kites soar in the air- it really is a sight to see that you don’t want to miss! Paired with food vendors and fun activities, it’s a great afternoon to get outside and play!”  stated Recreation Supervisor Sabrina Hunley.  

Our featured professional kite flyers, including Al Sparling, Darryl Waters, Anthony Catalano, Team Sky FX, and Team Chicago Kite, will be on-site to inspire and entertain with their amazing kites. For those who wish to join in the fun, participants can bring their own kites or purchase one at the event while supplies last and enjoy flying in our Public Kite Flying Area. Please note that the public is asked not to enter the Professional Kite Flying Area, and manja string or any other type of glass-covered string is strictly prohibited for everyone's safety.  

One of our local favorites, 94.9 WDKB radio station, will join the festivities on-site with music and live broadcasts from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Sound and Effects Mobile Entertainment will also be rocking some tunes on-site from 1:00 to 3:30 pm. 

No festival would be complete without food vendors! Select food vendors will be on-site: The Press Box, Big D’s Hot Dogs, The Lovely Lemon, Kona Ice, Sweet Butts Cotton Candy, and the Cream King. Families and individuals are encouraged to grab their picnic blankets and lawn chairs and secure their spots early to experience this free event's magic.

We thank our 2024 DeKalb Kite Fest sponsors, Country Inn & Suites, Raising Canes, and Midwest Energy, for their invaluable support. To learn more about the DeKalb Kite Fest, please visit dekalbparkdistrict.com or call (815) 758-7756.