St Annes International Kite Festival Returns for 2026

Friday, 19 December 2025 12:49

By Central Radio News

Families across Fylde can look forward to another unforgettable weekend of wonder as the award-winning St Annes International Kite Festival returns.

The event will run from Friday 4 September to Sunday 6 September 2026, transforming the beach into a kaleidoscope of colour and creativity.

The celebrated three-day festival kicks off with a magical illuminated kite display on Friday evening, when the night sky will come alive with glowing kites dancing above the seafront. The fun continues throughout the weekend with two full days of breathtaking displays on Saturday and Sunday, featuring world-class kite teams and talented flyers from the UK and across the globe who have made St Annes their must-visit destination.

From mesmerising aerial displays to delicious food and drink stalls along the promenade, the festival creates the perfect family day out that showcases St Annes at its absolute best.

The partnership with SmileFactor10 continues to deliver one of the UK's premier kite festivals, with their expertise and passion helping create memories that last long after the kites have landed. Local businesses embrace the festival weekend with special offers and warm welcomes, demonstrating the fantastic community spirit that makes our town so special.

Councillor Jayne Nixon, Lead Member for Tourism, Leisure and Culture, said: "The Kite Festival has become a jewel in St Annes' crown, bringing joy to thousands of families while showcasing our beautiful seafront to visitors from far and wide. We're delighted to announce these dates early so everyone can plan to join us for what promises to be another spectacular celebration."

Kite flyer, Sue Kennedy, from SmileFactor10, added, “We’re super excited to be back in St Annes for another fantastic weekend of kite flying.

‘’St Annes International Kite Festival is now the largest kite festival in the UK, and a world-class event on the kite calendar. With kite-flying friends from across the world, we love to put on an impressive show, and St Annes beach is the perfect location.

“We are hugely grateful to Fylde Council for their ongoing support to help us deliver such a spectacle, which brings so many people to the town. See you in September!”

For the latest updates and exciting announcements as the festival approaches, visit: https://www.discoverfylde.co.uk/st-annes-international-kite-festival/