Callaway, tucked away in the convergence of seven valleys in Custer County, is an enchanting little town. For most of the year, the population is just around 500. But for a brief weekend at the end of every summer, the town comes alive with visitors and bright colors. The Kite Flight Festival in Nebraska is a fun time for everyone!
The Callaway Kite Flight is held on 200 acres of open prairie, giving guests and participants a huge space in which to play.
When guests arrive, they drive down a tunnel of flags representing the 29 countries and 21 states that previous years' participants have come from.
The kites fill the sky with all sorts of beautiful, sometimes bizarre, shapes.
You'll find some conventionally shaped kites...
...But the unexpected enormous animals are always a crowd favorite.
Imagine standing on the ground and watching this enormous whale kite pass by overhead!
At times it can feel like you're in a whole other world...or a very odd dream.
The event is sanctioned by the American Kitefliers Association.
Amateurs fly kites along with professionals, making this an event that everyone can enjoy.
Side note: how do I sign up for the job of professional kite flier?
Bring your own kite to join in the fun and excitement or buy one from a vendor at the event. They won't be as elaborate as the pros' kites, but they will be loads of fun to fly!
The festival is a great way to wrap up summer. If you have little ones, it's an experience they'll never forget.
But even grownups can't help but be enchanted by these graceful - and sometimes kind of goofy - airborne works of art.
This Nebraska kite festival has been entertaining guests since 1990. It's not the only kite festival in the state, but we love how the whole community comes together to celebrate the fun every year. The 2024 event takes place on Labor Day weekend. Admission is just $5 per adult per day and $3 per child per day. Younger kids — and guests bussed in from nearby nursing homes — are admitted for free. Get ready to enjoy this Labor Day weekend festival in Nebraska!
You'll find the festival at Foster Smith Field, four miles southeast of Callaway on Highway 40. For more information and updates on this year's event, visit the Callaway Kite Flight Festival website and the Callaway Kite Flight Facebook page. If you have been searching for "kite festivals near me," this is a great one to head to this season!
While you're there for the festival, be sure to check out the sweet little town of Callaway, Nebraska - you'll be sure to fall in love with it! If you're planning a road trip to this cute town, take a look at The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List by OnlyInYourState. You'll have everything you need!
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