Frequently Asked Questions (some details are subject to change as the event gets closer):

  1. When and where is the Kite Festival taking place? The LBI FLY Kite Festival happens every year on Columbus Day Weekend, this year it will be held on October 9th-10th, 2026. The Main Kite Fields are located in Ship Bottom (18th-27th streets) all festival long, from Friday-Saturday.
  2. Can I fly my own kite? Of course! We will have a designated Open Fly area for anyone attending the event to fly and operate their own kites on 18th Street and  South of 27th St Beach. This is to ensure that kites can be flown safely without interfering with the professional kiters and large inflatables. If you are unsure where to fly your kite when you arrive, ask someone at our welcome tent between 21st and 22nd St Beach.
  3. Will there be activities for kids? YES! We will have Kids Kite Making between 19th and 20th St. Beach from 1pm-4pm on Friday and 11am-3pm on Saturday. There will also be Bubble Blasts for Kids at the Interactive SJKF Kite Field between 20th-21st St Beach on both Friday and Saturday.
  4. What will happen if it rains? Barring steady downpours and/or lightning in the area, we will be able to fly in some capacity. Some of the larger kites may be grounded if it rains, but we should be able to fly a few kites if there is mist and/or light rain. Kite flight is also wind-dependent and may impact the event. Make sure to follow us on both our Instagram and Facebook pages, this is where we will put live and updated communications regarding changes due to the weather.
  5. Where can we park? Parking is free and available on Long Beach Township and Ship Bottom streets. Please make sure you are not blocking anyone’s private driveway.
  6. Does it cost anything to attend the Kite Festival? Nope, this is a free event! At Saturday’s Night Fly event, we ask for a donation (helps to fund the festival).
  7. Will there be any way I can get on-site information during the actual Kite Festival? Absolutely! We will have a Public Information Tent (21st Street in Ship Bottom) staffed with knowledgeable volunteers throughout the course of the entire weekend. Our website will also be complete with a schedule of events to access.
  8. Will there be event merchandise for sale? Yes! Chick’s LBI Shop, our official Festival Merchandiser, will be on hand during the Kite Festival with short sleeve and long sleeve t-shirts and hoodies commemorating our LBI FLY event. There will also be kites available for sale. LED/Night Fly merchandise will be available to purchase at the Welcome Tent on 21st Street and at the Night Fly!
  9. What about public bathroom facilities? We will have portable restrooms at the top of a few beach entrances, on the street (19th,  21st, 22nd, 24th, and 26th in Ship Bottom). There are also public restroom facilities at the Ship Bottom Borough Hall on 17th Street. In Long Beach Township, there will be bathrooms available on 68th Street for the Night Fly.

For any additional questions, please e-mail info@welcometolbi.com