There's something uniquely compelling about Lincoln City, Oregon. Nestled against the majestic Pacific Ocean, it's a haven of natural beauty where land, sea, and sky intertwine. If there's one thing Lincoln City does better than any other place, it's providing a stage for the incredible annual Summer Kite Festival, which is a beloved tradition that captivates and amazes families year after year.
Every summer, when the weather is just right, the skies over the D River State Recreation Site become a riot of color and movement. The annual Summer Kite Festival, held this year on June 22-23, 2024, promises to be a breathtaking spectacle for all who attend. Giant, whimsical octopuses float across the blue sky, playful whales breach the cloud ceiling, and agile Rokkaku kites dance around, their looping trajectories bringing awe to the onlookers. The music provides the perfect atmosphere for this carnival-like festival.
Over the course of two days, visitors can experience a host of kite-flying activities, encapsulating the festival's essence – a shared sense of joy, freedom, and creativity that has made the event a must-visit tradition for locals and visiting families alike.
D River State Recreation Site
Centrally positioned in Lincoln City, this popular access point to the beach doubles as the location for both Summer and Fall Kite Festivals. With breathtaking views of the ocean, there's ample space for your kites to soar freely. You and your kiddos can help create a vivid spectacle for the travelers on Highway 101 with your own kites. However, keep in mind that parking space is restricted and tends to fill up quickly. Folks wanting to take advantage of this location should plan to get there early or take advantage of the free shuttle buses around town.
There's ample parking available at the Lincoln City Community Center and Lincoln City Outlets, ensuring a stress-free experience. Complimentary shuttle service from both locations will be running continuously from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm on both days, providing easy and convenient access to the festival. Download a copy of Lincoln City's Parking Guide here.
Public transportation is also available through Lincoln County Transit on Saturday.
A Jam-Packed Schedule Awaits!
Download a PDF of the event schedule here.
*The schedule is subject to change due to circumstances beyond our control, including weather. Times are approximate.
10 am: Announcements. Festival Opening Performance.
10 am - 2 pm: FREE Kite Making Workshop with Family Promise of Lincoln County. Make your own paper kite that flies!
10 am - 4 pm: Performances by Featured Fliers.
4 pm: Festival Closes.
ALL DAY: Pixie Fest Carnival Games, donations going to Kiwanis Club of Lincoln City.
ALL DAY: Walk through the Wind Garden.
ALL DAY: BIG show kites fill the Lincoln City festival sky with color!
ALL DAY: Art Kite Display.
Special Kite Flier Memorial on Sunday: 11 am - 11:15 am
As you can see, there's a lot more to explore in Lincoln City, Oregon, and the Summer Kite Festival is a great place to start. So mark your calendars and prepare to let your spirits fly high with the kites at this exceptional celebration of wind, color, and fun!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Leashed dogs are welcome on the beach. Please be mindful and clean up after your pet while exploring our beautiful beaches.
Service Animals
All service animals are welcome at the Summer Kite Festival including our shuttle services.
Can I fly my own kite in the festival?
No. Professional kite fliers are performing for the festival. However, you are welcome to fly your kite at other locations along the beach.
Will there be a food vendor at the festival?
Yes. Kristi's Food Truck will be onsite serving, hot dogs, burgers, Indian tacos, and more!
If you'd rather find a wonderful spot to eat out, we highly recommend Oshens Chophouse in the Salishan Marketplace for steaks, pasta, and killer deserts.
Where can I buy a Kite Festival t-shirt?
Scout Northwest Trading Company will be onsite with Kite Festival logo'd gear available to purchase.
Where To Stay For The Summer Kite Festival?
Our favorite place to stay near Lincoln City is Salishan Coastal Lodge in Gleneden Beach. This gorgeous lodge is surrounded by lush coastal forest and is right by Siletz Bay.
The rooms at Salishan are warm, inviting, unforgettable, and the perfect place to stay with family and friends while exploring the kite festival and nearby beaches.
While you're staying at Salishan, you can also enjoy the aerial adventure park, the gorgeous spa, golf, fire pits, and time well spent with family!
Learn more about Salishan Coastal Lodge and book your stay now before it fills up with other kite festival guests!
