(Photo by Kevin Mathewson, Kenosha County Eye)
KENOSHA, Wis. – Hundreds of kites will take flight above Lake Michigan this weekend as the Outta Sight Kite Flight returns for its 22nd year, bringing vibrant colors, high-flying stunts and family fun to Kennedy Park.
The free festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, June 7 and 8, at 4051 Fifth Ave. A grand launch of hundreds of kites is scheduled for noon both days, followed by a lineup of aerial performances, live music and kite-flying spectacles.
Presented by Gift of Wings and the City of Kenosha, with support from 92.1 VTY Country and IKEA, this year’s event promises to be one of the most exciting yet, featuring a mix of returning favorites and thrilling newcomers.
Back for their 16th year are Fire and Ice, the internationally acclaimed kite-flying duo from Illinois and Wisconsin, who will perform three choreographed shows daily. The Gift of Wings Dream Team will also return with their massive kite collection, including the Super Giant Whale Kites and a 120-foot-long Trilobite. Making its debut is an exclusive IKEA Shark Kite, a new addition sure to draw eyes skyward.
New to this year’s lineup is Canadian kite flyer Jim Almas, who will attempt to fly three stunt kites simultaneously to music. The Flying Emus, a four-line stunt kite team, will also make their first-ever appearance at the festival. Adding celebrity flair to the weekend are Amy and Connor Doran of America’s Got Talent fame, performing their mesmerizing routines throughout both days.
Local talent will also be on display, including Kenosha’s Jake Peters and Milwaukee’s Paul Koepke, who will showcase their personal kite collections.
Young festival-goers can participate in the Leaf Guard “Kids Mad Dash,” where the first 100 children will receive a free kite and race to launch them together.
“There’s no better place to be this weekend than right here in Kenosha, with our skies alive with color, creativity and community spirit,” said Mayor David Bogdala. “The Outta Sight Kite Flight is one of our city’s most joyful and family-friendly traditions—bringing together residents, visitors and world-class performers along our beautiful lakefront.”
Admission to the event is free and open to the public. Food and kites will be available for purchase on site. Street parking is available west of Kennedy Park, but Kennedy Drive will be closed to traffic during the festival.
For more information, visit www.giftofwings.com or contact Scott Fisher at 414-305-3145.
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