Color the Wind Kite Festival

Date: February 20, 2027
Time: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Join us in Clear Lake, Iowa, for an extraordinary winter spectacle at the Color the Wind kite festival, the largest and most vibrant event of its kind in the Midwest. This festival showcases an awe-inspiring collection of gigantic inflatable kites, flown by dedicated kite enthusiasts from all over the United States held annually on the third Saturday of February.

Suggested donation for admission is $5 per person. Use Venmo @clearlakeareachamber, or look for the donation buckets throughout the event!

Prepare to be enchanted as the sky above Clear Lake transforms into a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors. The sheer size and artistry of the kites will leave you in awe, while the perfectly synchronized choreography to musical numbers adds a magical touch to the entire experience.

Clear Lake’s frozen oasis becomes a magnet for visitors eager to witness the grandeur of kite-flying on a scale like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned kite-flyer or a newcomer to this captivating hobby, the festival promises something for everyone. It’s an event that transcends age and expertise, captivating the young and the young at heart alike.

Please remember that this is a winter event, so be prepared for potentially chilly temperatures. Dress warmly and come bundled up to fully enjoy the festivities. And don’t forget to bring your sunglasses to shield your eyes from the dazzling display above!

Mark your calendars for the Color the Wind Kite Festival in Clear Lake, Iowa, and prepare to embark on a visual journey that will leave you breathless. This remarkable event is not to be missed!

FAQs

Ice Conditions: Ice conditions are monitored by our safety team. We will continue to update regarding ice conditions as the event nears. Note: If ice conditions are not safe, the event will be canceled. There is no back-up location.

Parking: ADA parking map & downtown road closure map is posted below.  On-street parking is allowed anywhere the road is not closed.

Shuttles: See below for 2 shuttle route maps that offer free parking and downtown pickup/drop off.  Shuttle service begins at 10:30am, the last pick up downtown will be 4:00pm.

You may drive along N Lakeview Drive to view the kites without getting out of your car, however you must keep traffic moving – no stopping.

Color the Wind & Clear Lake merch as well as kites will be available for purchase at the Lakeview Room in City Park from 10am-4pm. You may also bring your own kite to fly, just steer clear of the large kites and their lines!

In addition to these local restaurants, we will have a couple food trucks parked on 3rd Ave. along City Park.

You may NOT drive or park your car on the ice downtown in the designated festival area.

If you attend via snowmobile, make sure you are far enough away from the kiters lines and do not drive inside the festival area.

Other Saturday activities:

Step inside and keep the day going with a mix of music, art and history!

Surf Ballroom is open from 10am-5pm, with tours of the Music Experience Center now open. Walk through Clear Lake’s music legacy with rare exhibits and an immersive experience that set the stage before you explore the Surf itself.

Clear Lake Arts Center is open from 10am-4pm. Step into a world of color, light, and imagination with a hands-on art activity for all ages. Participants will design their own stained-glass inspired window using construction paper and glowing cellophane, exploring how layered shapes transform when light shines through.

Clear Lake Public Library Activities:
10:30am: Color the Wind Story Time
12-4pm: The Library Meeting Room will be open as a warming house with games and crafts to enjoy while you take a break from the cold. A hot chocolate bar will also be available.

Plan Your Trip Today

The Color the Wind Kite Festival is the perfect reason to visit Clear Lake. From the soaring kites to the friendly vibe, this event is sure to brighten your winter. Book your stay now and get ready to Color the Wind!

Downtown Parking Restrictions & Road Closures