Watch 600 kites take flight at Veterans Park — free fun and parking included.
Part I
About this event
The IKEA Family Kite Festival is a vibrant celebration of color and creativity at Milwaukee's Veterans Park. With giant kites and precision flying, this event is a visual treat for all ages. The highlight is the Grand Launch, where over 600 kites fill the sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
Beyond the visual feast, the festival includes the Kids Mad Dash, a playful activity that lets children run with kites. It's a perfect outing for families, offering both entertainment and a chance to enjoy the outdoors. With free admission and parking, it's an accessible event for everyone.
From the organizer
The annual kite festival, which features giant-sized kites and precision kite-flying, runs May 23 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and May 24 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Don't miss the Grand Launch of more than 600 kites, professional kite-flying, and the Kids Mad Dash! Free fun for the family -- and free parking.
Getting in
Drop in anytime — no commitment needed
Pricing details
Free fun for the family, with free parking.
Who'll Be There
Families with children, local residents, kite enthusiasts, and community members looking for a fun, free event. Expect a mix of ages, primarily children and their parents.
Part II · The feel
The details organizers don't always put in the description — pulled from the room, the crowd, and what people remember afterward.
Volume varies a lot. Kids events and festivals swing from quiet to loud with little warning.
More like this
May 23 · 10am
Veterans Park
by Gift of Wings, Kite Society of Wisconsin and Illinois
Watch 600 kites take flight at Veterans Park — free fun and parking included.
May 6 · 10am
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
Guided outdoor exploration for kids at Retzer Nature Center — dress for adventure!
Varies
May 9 · 9am
Pondview Park
by Optimist Club of Menomonee Falls
Free kids fishing derby with prizes and t-shirts at Mill Pond Park.
May 31 · 8am
feat. Raptor Handlers
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
Meet raptors up close and learn from handlers at the Audubon Center.
Jun 3 · 10am
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
Guided outdoor exploration for kids at Retzer Nature Center — dress for adventure!
Varies
Jun 10 · 10am
Schlitz Audubon Nature Center
Guided outdoor exploration for kids at Retzer Nature Center — dress for adventure!
Varies