Event Information
The Okoboji Winter Games Kite Festival was started in 2019 by Steve Boote with Eagle Construction. Over the last few years this giant kite festival has grown and expanded to become one of the largest kite festivals in the country.
We are excited to welcome professional fliers from all around the world to fly these giant colorful kites on the frozen waters of West Lake Okoboji. Kites range from 20-100 feet long. In 2022 we flew over 80 kites, and in 2023 we hope to have up to 120 kites flying at a time!
Flight schedule for the kites is weather pending. Kites can be seen in the air generally from 10am-4pm Thursday - Sunday. For the most up to date information join the Facebook Group "Okoboji Winter Games Kite Festival" for updates and live coverage.
Spectators are welcome to walk on to the ice and see the kites up close and personal. Kites are also visible from across the Iowa Great Lakes. For the best visibility, park at Arnolds Park Amusement Park and walk through Preservation Plaza to the lakeshore where you can see the fliers in action and take in the beauty of these kites from around the world.
Sponsored By
Night Kites Added for 2023!
Exciting News!!! The Okoboji Winter Games Kite Festival will be adding a NIGHT SHOW to the schedule this year!
Enjoy these light up kites beginning at dusk on Saturday, January 28th. The show will continue during the Burning of the Greens and Fireworks Extravaganza sponsored by Bank Midwest! Come enjoy the Burning of the Greens, hear the winners of the tournaments, and enjoy the bright colors of the fireworks and kites!
*The Okoboji Winter Games Kite Festival is weather pending, stay tuned for the latest schedule information.*
