Detroit Kite Festival
Sunday, July 9th 2023
Belle Isle Cricket Field, near the James Scott Fountain
10am-4pm
2022 detroit kite festival sponsors
Dragon Sponsor: Michigan wildlife council
The Michigan Wildlife Council is excited for the opportunity to participate in this year’s Detroit Kite Festival and engage with attendees about conservation and the importance of protecting our natural resources for future generations,” Michigan Wildlife Council Chair Nick Buggia said. “Whether you hunt, fish or enjoy other activities like bird-watching, hiking, camping or kite-flying, Michigan’s woods, water and outdoor spaces connect all of us.
Diamond sponsor: NATIONAL HERITAGE ACADEMIES
National Heritage Academies (NHA) partners with community groups to build and operate K-12 public charter schools. Founded in 1995, today NHA manages over 100 schools in nine states, serving more than 60,000 students. NHA’s system of schools is designed to eliminate the achievement gap and provide school choice to families so their children are prepared for success in high school, college, and beyond.
Getting To the fest
Ride your bike
The bike path and sidewalk connect Detroit to the island on the left side of the bridge. Use the sidewalk to come from the Riverfront Bike Path or from the Dequindre Cut. Eastern Market and the Downtown Riverfront are two convenient places to park if you want to bike in! Entry to the park is free for cyclists.
Take the Bus
Bus riders can access Belle Isle via the No. 12 Conant route. The service runs roughly every 50 minutes to Belle Isle between 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m on Sundays. You will not have to pay the park entry fee, only the $1.50 bus fare. The Festival is within short walking distance from the bus stop.
Drive
Parking will be available directly next to the Festival. Take a right after crossing the bridge, then take the second left on Fountain Way. Drivers will need to pay for a recreation passport. This costs $11.00 per car and $5.00 per motorcycle for Michigan residents for an annual pass, and $9.00 for non-Michigan residents day pass.
Special accommodations
We will have convenient parking for those with special needs. For further assistance, please contact us at detroitkitefestival@gmail.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What else will be at the Festival?
In addition to kite flying and making, for 2022 we will have very limited free activities in addition to the kite flying.
Is it free?
YES! Entrance to the Festival is free. Drivers will need to pay for a recreation passport. This costs $11.00/car and $5.oo/motorcycle for Michigan residents and $31.00 for non-Michigan residents. Once purchased, the recreation passport will allow you to visit the island unrestricted until your car registration is due. We highly encourage carpooling, taking the bus, or riding your bike!
Do we have to register?
Nope! Just arrive with your friends and family!
Who puts on this event, and who benefits?
Detroit Kite Festival is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation. This event is 100% volunteer run by a group of Detroit-based kite enthusiasts. We rely on donations, sponsorships, and grants.
Do I need to bring a kite?
We will have as many kites as possible for you to fly, but please bring your own if you have one! Please refer to our resources page on where to buy kite kits and how to make your own kites!
Will there be food?
Yes! We will have food trucks for food for purchase. You may also bring your own picnic.
What if it rains?
We would be very sad. Activities that take place under the tents will happen rain or shine. Although we have no official rain date, nothing is stopping you from coming out the following Sunday, or any other day, for a day of kite flying!
Can I bring my dog?
If your dog is kind to people and to other dogs, you may bring your dog. Please care for and pick up after your dog properly.
What are the Festival Rules?
Be considerate of other kite fliers - no language, actions, or imagery that could be offensive or inappropriate.
Do not use string made to cut other kite strings.
Don’t bring anything to the Festival that puts others in danger.
Don’t fly your kites in the street or near power lines.
Help us lower our impact on Belle Isle by depositing your trash and recyclables in the appropriate containers.
Sure! We have been asked if birthday parties etc. can take place at the festival. You are welcome to have any event you wish, we reccommend getting their early and securing a spot on the perimeter of the field. Please go to our welcome tent when you arrive for suggestions.
Can I have a party at the festival?
Have a question you don't see answered? Email us at detroitkitefestival@gmail.com.