What to do on LBI During The Fall?
Long Beach Island, NJ (LBI), is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant community, and fun-filled events throughout the year. One of the most beloved annual events on the island is the LBI Kite Festival, a weekend of high-flying fun, artistic expression, and family-friendly activities. The LBI Kite Festival has grown to become one of the biggest events of its kind in New Jersey, attracting kite enthusiasts from all over the country to showcase their colorful creations against the backdrop of the blue skies over LBI.
As the event gears up for its 2024 edition, here’s everything you need to know about what makes the LBI Kite Festival an unmissable experience.
What Is the LBI Kite Festival?
The LBI Kite Festival is a celebration of kites, featuring an array of kite-flying competitions, displays of giant kites, kite-making workshops, and family-friendly activities. Held over multiple days, the festival brings together professional kite flyers and hobbyists of all ages, creating a kaleidoscope of color and motion in the sky above LBI.
The event is free to the public and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The festival takes place on multiple beaches and open spaces across the island, offering plenty of opportunities for both participants and spectators to enjoy the high-flying displays.
Dates and Location for 2024
The LBI Kite Festival 2024 will take place from October 5th to October 7th. The main activities will be hosted on the beaches of Ship Bottom, Brant Beach, Beach Haven, and Surf City, but additional events and activities are scattered across Long Beach Island, including some indoor events for visitors to enjoy.
Festival Highlights
The LBI Kite Festival offers a wide variety of events and attractions designed to entertain kite enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Here are some of the must-see features of the 2024 edition:
1. Giant Kite Displays
One of the most exciting aspects of the LBI Kite Festival is the giant kite displays. These aren’t your average backyard kites; they are enormous works of art, some of which are larger than cars or small buildings! You’ll see everything from majestic dragons and whimsical sea creatures to brightly colored geometric shapes soaring high in the sky.
Professional kite flyers from all over the world will showcase their creations, many of which are custom-designed and have been featured in international kite festivals.
2. Kite-Flying Competitions
For those with a competitive streak, the festival features various kite-flying competitions, including both professional and amateur divisions. Flyers can compete in categories such as:
- Precision flying
- Team flying
- Freestyle tricks
- Altitude sprinting
If you’re new to competitive kite flying, you can still join in the fun—there are beginner-friendly contests and opportunities to show off your skills.
3. Night Fly & Lighted Kites
The LBI Kite Festival wouldn’t be complete without the awe-inspiring Night Fly event. On the evening of October 6th, professional flyers will illuminate the sky with lighted kites that glow in the dark. The sight of neon-lit kites dancing against the starry night sky is a magical experience that festival-goers won’t want to miss.
4. Kite-Making Workshops
Want to try your hand at designing and flying your own kite? The festival offers kite-making workshops, perfect for kids and adults alike. Participants can create their own custom kites and learn from experienced kite-makers about the principles of flight, design, and construction. These workshops provide a hands-on way to get involved in the festival and take home a keepsake from your LBI trip.
5. Kids’ Zone and Family-Friendly Activities
The LBI Kite Festival is a family-friendly event, and there’s no shortage of activities for the little ones. In addition to the kite-making workshops, the Kids’ Zone offers face painting, games, and interactive demonstrations that allow children to learn more about the art and science of kiting.
6. Vendor Village
Throughout the festival, visitors can explore Vendor Village, where local artisans and kite vendors set up booths offering everything from handmade crafts and jewelry to kites and kite-flying gear. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first kite or take home a unique souvenir, the Vendor Village is a great place to shop and support local businesses.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss the LBI Kite Festival 2024
The LBI Kite Festival offers something for everyone, whether you’re a kite-flying enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to spend a weekend by the beach. Here are a few reasons why this event is a must-see:
A Visual Spectacle
There’s nothing quite like watching a sky full of vibrant kites soaring over the beach. The LBI Kite Festival transforms the island’s already stunning landscapes into a living canvas of color and movement, providing endless opportunities for photography and wonder.
Perfect for Families
The festival’s family-friendly activities make it an ideal event for parents looking to entertain their children. With interactive workshops, games, and activities, kids will have a blast while learning about kites and aviation in a fun and creative way.
Celebrate the LBI Community
The LBI Kite Festival is more than just a fun event—it’s also a celebration of the Long Beach Island community. The festival brings together locals and visitors alike, fostering a sense of camaraderie and excitement. Whether you’re a year-round resident or just visiting for the weekend, the festival is a great way to connect with the LBI spirit.
Make the Most of Your Visit to LBI
While you’re in LBI for the kite festival, why not make the most of your trip and explore all the island has to offer? Long Beach Island is home to beautiful beaches, charming seaside towns, and plenty of local attractions. Here are a few ideas for activities to complement your kite festival experience:
- Barnegat Lighthouse State Park: Visit the iconic Barnegat Lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters.
- Beach Haven: Explore Beach Haven’s vibrant downtown area, filled with unique shops, restaurants, and the popular Fantasy Island Amusement Park.
- Dining by the Shore: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of LBI’s many waterfront restaurants, where you can dine with a view after a day of kite-flying fun.
Plan Your Trip
The LBI Kite Festival 2024 promises to be an exciting weekend of high-flying entertainment, perfect for visitors of all ages. If you’re planning to attend, be sure to book your accommodations early, as the festival draws large crowds, and hotels and vacation rentals can fill up fast.
Event Dates: October 5-7, 2024
Location: Long Beach Island, NJ (multiple venues across the island)
For more information about the event schedule, competitions, or workshops, visit the official LBI Kite Festival website or follow the festival’s social media pages for updates.
Whether you’re a kite enthusiast or just looking for a unique way to spend a weekend at the beach, the LBI Kite Festival 2024 is an event not to be missed. With its colorful displays, exciting competitions, and family-friendly activities, it’s the perfect way to celebrate the beauty and creativity of kite flying on the Jersey Shore. Mark your calendars and get ready to watch the skies come alive over Long Beach Island this October!
Planning to Visit the LBI Kite Festival 2024? Don’t Miss a Stop at Fireplaces Plus!
While you’re enjoying the high-flying excitement of the LBI Kite Festival 2024, make sure to enhance your visit by stopping by Fireplaces Plus in nearby Manahawkin, NJ—just a short drive from Long Beach Island. Whether you’re looking to add warmth and style to your beach home or seeking inspiration for outdoor fire pits or fireplaces, Fireplaces Plus has the perfect solution for you.
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Visit us at:
📍 660 E Bay Ave, Manahawkin, NJ 08050
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Don’t wait until the winter chill sets in! Stop by Fireplaces Plus and get started on creating the cozy, inviting home you’ve always wanted. Your dream fireplace is just a visit away!
