Back and Better Than Ever
One of LBI’s most exciting festivals — and maybe its most family-friendly event — is back again!
This year, LBI Fly is celebrating its eleventh annual kite festival! For the past decade, the festival has decorated Long Beach Island’s skies with color and whimsy. Last year’s event was a dazzling success, and this year is set to be the most exciting yet, with brand-new features and events that promise to elevate the experience even further.
The Kite Festival will take place over Columbus Day Weekend, October 10th and 11th, at the 18th–27th Street beaches in Ship Bottom. Livening up the off-season, the festival is certainly worth a visit. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, you won’t want to miss this spectacular celebration of color, creativity, and community.
History and Tradition
The LBI Invitational Kite Festival began in 2015, hoping to bring the sport of kiting to LBI by featuring a variety of beautiful kites. Now, the Kite Festival is one of Long Beach Island’s most iconic annual events, drawing in thousands of spectators from the island and beyond. There are a variety of kites on display, from giant inflatable kites to ones more artistically designed.Â
Last year, some fan-favorite kites included a winged horse, a whale, and even a giant duck. Spectators of all ages indulged in the Candy Drop, when dozens of kites released candy from the skies. Music lovers rocked out during the Night Fly – with a performance from a live band and glow-in-the-dark kites in flight under the stars.
In addition to kites on display, there are kite-flying competitions that are an exciting spectacle!Â
We have added a rough skeleton of the schedule below. Be sure to keep up with LBI Fly to stay in-the-know regarding specific locations and times. In the meantime, check out some pictures and videos from previous LBI Kite Festivals to get excited for this year’s showcase!
đź“… Schedule of Events
*Be sure to keep up with LBI Fly to stay in-the-know regarding specific locations and times
Friday, October 10th
- Various Events - Check Schedule
- 18th-27th St Beaches, Ship Bottom
- 12pm-5pm
Saturday, October 11th
- Various Events - Check Schedule
- 18th-27th St Beaches, Ship Bottom
- 10am-4pm
- Night Fly - Check Schedule
- 68th St Beach, Long Beach Township
- 6:30pm-8:30pm
Sunday, October 12th - THERE ARE NO SUNDAY EVENTS THIS YEAR
✨New & Exciting Features in 2025
- Art Kite Field: Artists and kite makers will take their framed masterpieces to the skies.
- Dual Line & Sport Kite Displays: Learn to Fly with Ken McNeil and Team.
- Drum Box Kite Raffle & Art Kite Raffle: Take home a piece of the festival!
- Ship Bottom Kite Unveiling: Be the first to see this year’s signature festival kite.
- Kids Kitemaking (create your own kite and take it home!)
- Interactive Kids Kite Field
- Bubble Blasts on the beach
- Hands-on Kite Flying with handmade kites
For More Information:
For everything Kite Fest and to make sure you don't miss your favorite event, visit their website below.
- Website: Click Here
- Facebook: Click Here
- Instagram: Click Here
- info@welcometolbi.com
Plan Your Trip
The yearly LBI FLY Kite Festival is one of the many iconic events in Long Beach Island that make it a wonderful place to visit.Â
LBI Hotel Guide
Need more info on LBI hotel options? Check out our hotel guide which outlines everything you need to know!
View the GuideOff-Season Things To Do
Looking for other reasons to visit this off-season? Check our Off-Season guide where we walk through all of our favorite LBI off-season activities!
View the GuideFrequently Asked Questions
What are the judging criteria for kite competitions?
In general, the common judging criteria for kite competitions are kite flight and kite handling, aesthetic visual appeal while in flight, craftsmanship, and structural design.
Are there age restrictions for participating in kite flying?
There are no age restrictions for the event. This is a family-friendly festival with activities for both kids and adults.
Is there an entry fee for spectators?
The event is free, except for Friday evening’s Indoor Fly at the LBI School and the Night Fly Extravaganza on Saturday, which both request a $3 suggested donation per person.