Fun Takes Flight at 18th Annual Kite Fest

DeKalb, IL– The DeKalb Kite Fest has long been a tradition within the DeKalb community, and the DeKalb Park District is excited to be hosting the event in its 18^th year on Sunday, September 10, from 11:00 am – 3:30 pm, at DeKalb Kiwanis Park, located at Fairview Drive and South 4^th Street. 

Visitors will enjoy Kite Fest traditions such as giant inflatable kites, dancing kites high up in the sky, and some fun, seasonal on-site activities. 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 4^th Street.

“There is something truly magical about magnificent kites flying high in the sky,” commented Superintendent of Recreation Chrissy Tluczek. “The Park District is happy to continue this long-standing DeKalb tradition and bring joy to residents of all ages. Whether you come to test your own kite flying skills or watch the professionals in action, it’s bound to be a fantastic fall afternoon of kites, food, crafts, and fun!”

Featured professional kite flyers will include Al Sparling, Darryl Waters, Anthony Catalano, Team Sky FX, and Team Chicago Kite. Participants can bring their own kites or buy one at the event to enjoy the public kite-flying area! Volunteers will be on-site to demonstrate safe kite assembly and flying. Manja string or any other type of glass-covered string is prohibited.

The popular Candy Drop activity will take place once again, where delicious candy, generously donated by Ferrara Candy Company, will be hoisted high in the sky and rain down for children to make a mad dash for all the morsels that fall. The Candy Drop activity is weather/wind conditions pending, so the time is TBD. One of our local favorites, 94.9 WDKB radio station, will join the festivities on-site with music and live broadcasts from noon – 2 pm.

And no festival would be complete without food vendors! Select food vendors will be on-site. Families and individuals are encouraged to grab their picnic blankets and lawn chairs and secure their spot early to experience this free event’s magic.

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