Cape Town’s Sky-High Celebration of Colour, Community & Cause
Mark your calendars: the annual Cape Town International Kite Festival is set to take flight once again, a spectacular weekend of vibrant kites, family-friendly fun and meaningful awareness for mental health. Taking place on 25–26 October 2025, the event will be held at the scenic grounds of Youngsfield Military Base in Ottery, Cape Town.
A Kite Festival with a Purpose
This isn’t just any kite-flying event, it’s a colourful tradition that’s been taking place since 1994, hosted by non-profit Cape Mental Health and dedicated to raising both funds and awareness for mental-health support services in the Western Cape.
Despite its playful façade, the festival carries a powerful message: helping the community heal while beauty soars above.
What to Expect: Colour, Action & Family Fun
Imagine a sky filled with kites of every shape, size and colour from giant inflatables and stunt kites to handmade creations fluttering high above the beach. At previous editions of the festival, entrants have flown kites shaped like dragons, jellyfish, sky-divers and giant hands waving at the crowd.
Activities aren’t just limited to flying, here’s what you can look forward to:
Why Cape Town is the Perfect Host
Cape Town’s coastal breezes, open skies and spectacular backdrop make it an ideal location for kite-flying magic. Whether you’re based locally or travelling in, the festival provides a colourful escape and a chance to connect with nature, joy and community.
Who Can Go & What to Bring
The festival welcomes everyone - hobby fliers, families, groups of friends and kite enthusiasts alike. Bringing your own kite is encouraged, but if you prefer to purchase at the venue or join a workshop, options will be available.
Here’s a quick checklist:
The festival’s deeper mission lies in supporting Cape Mental Health’s essential services: free or low-cost counselling, outreach programmes and community support in underserved areas.
The vibrant kites symbolise hope, resilience and upliftment — ideal themes as mental-health awareness gains importance in South Africa and beyond.
Practical Info at a Glance
Tips to Make the Most of the Day
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Ready to fly high and feel good? Gather your kite (or pick one up at the festival), rally your friends or family, and head to Cape Town for a weekend that’s colourful, meaningful and downright fun. See you under the blue sky and don’t forget to share your best kite-filled moment!