The Sky’s the Limit at the 2023 Atlantic Coast Kite Festival

Kite fliers and spectators of all ages and experience levels are encouraged to head to the beach between 16^th and 18^th streets, Saturday, May 6, through Sunday, May 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day for the annual Atlantic Coast Kite Festival. This visual feast features activities appropriate for all ages and skill levels – from experts, to hobbyists, to novice flyers, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include:

The Best Kite Contest

All are welcome to take part in the Atlantic Coast Kite Festival’s “Best Kite Contest.” There is no registration fee, it is open to the public and will take place each day of the festival. To enter, participants should simply bring a kite that they have made or purchased and fly it at the festival. The contest consists of two parts: the actual kite itself (how it looks and how well it is made), and the participant’s ability to fly the kite. Participants must be able to fly their kites consecutively in the air for five minutes at a height of 100 feet. Kites will be judged on:

• Flight (ability to fly for five minutes)
• Structural Design
• Craftsmanship
• Visual Appeal

There will be three competitive divisions: Master, Novice, and Youth (ages 7-14). Trophies will be awarded for each division. Awards will also be given each day for oldest and youngest kite-fliers, funniest kite, most unusual kite, and biggest kite.

Flight Training

Experienced kite enthusiasts will assist novice flyers. Topics include equipment selection, laying out of lines, setting up the field, launching the kite, flying and landing a kite, and safety. “Flight Training” will take place each day.

Kite Building Workshops

Families are invited to participate in kite building workshops. These free workshops include kite materials and instructions on how to build a kite, as well as the aerodynamics of kite flying and kite safety.

Kite Demonstrations

American Kite Association members from throughout the East Coast will offer kite demonstrations, perform kite routines to music, and fly giant kites (up to 80 feet long) that include an octopus kite!

Kite vendors will also be on site to sell various kinds of kites and gear.

Admission to this event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit BeachEventsVB.com.