Color the Wind Kite Festival

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, masterfully flown by dedicated kite enthusiasts from all corners of the United States. With free admission, we kindly appreciate any donations to support this incredible celebration!

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.

Kites will be available for purchase at the Lakeview Room. You may also bring your own kite to fly, just steer clear of the large kites and their lines!

Our visitor center / gift shop will be open from 9am-4pm. Warm up, sign our guest book and check out our Color the Wind and Clear Lake merch! (205 Main Ave across from City Park).

In addition to these local restaurants, we will have a couple food trucks parked across from the Clear Lake Yacht Club.  Relay for Life Cerro Gordo County will be hosting a bake sale in the Lakeview Room.

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

Other Saturday activities:

Surf Ballroom is open from 9am-1pm.
Clear Lake Arts Center is open from 10am-4pm.
Clear Lake Public Library Activities:
10:30am: Color the Wind Story Time
11:30am – 2:00pm: Warming Station with hot drinks (cocoa, coffee, and tea).
2:30pm: Take Flight at the Library – CLPL’s own historian Cindy Richardson covers the history of flight and important flights in Clear Lake.