St Ives Kite Fest 2024: A Celebration of Creativity and Community Spirit

St Ives is set to welcome spring with its vibrant Kite Fest on March 23 and March 30, 2024, promising a blend of creativity, community engagement, and outdoor fun. The festival, now in its third year, continues to capture the imagination of locals and visitors alike, fostering a sense of unity and artistic expression.

The festivities kick off with Kite Making Workshops at the St Ives Library & Visitor Information Centre on Saturday, March 23. From 10:00 am to 12:00 pm and again from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, participants will have the unique opportunity to build and decorate their own kites. Under the guidance of the ‘The Kite Doctor’ Billy Wynter, alongside Sam Atkins and new addition, art teacher Laura Peach, attendees will be equipped with all necessary materials for just £2 per kite. This year, the workshops extend their reach into local schools, reflecting a deepening commitment to community involvement and the arts.

The culmination of the festival, Flight Day, will take place on The Island, St Ives, on Saturday, March 30, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. This event invites all to bring their handmade or purchased kites to participate in a grand display of colour and creativity against the backdrop of St Ives’ stunning coastal scenery. Flight Day is a free event, emphasising the festival’s inclusive ethos.

The St Ives Kite Fest traces its roots back to 1991, initiated by Kneehigh Theatre as a community project. It saw the collaboration of Anna Maria Murphy, Billy’ Dr Kite’ Wynter, and other local artists. After a hiatus, the festival was revitalised in 2022 as part of St Ives Town Council’s Welcome Back events, marking its return as an anticipated annual celebration.

St Ives Kite Fest is more than just an event; it’s a testament to the power of community, creativity, and the joy of simple pleasures. As kites soar over The Island, they symbolise the collective spirit and artistic heritage of St Ives, a tradition that promises to continue enriching the cultural landscape of the town.

Organisers extend their gratitude to this year’s partners, St Ives Community Fund & FEAST Cornwall, for their support in making the Kite Fest a reality. For more information and a step-by-step kite making guide, participants are encouraged to visit the official website stiveskitefest.co.uk.

Join the community in celebrating the return of spring at the St Ives Kite Fest 2024, where creativity takes flight in the most picturesque of settings.