Your Guide to St Annes Kite Festival 2024

13th September – 12 noon to 10pm
14th September – 11am to 10pm
15th Sunday – 11am to 4pm

Every year, kite flyers from across the globe travel to St Annes-on-Sea to brave the high winds that sweep across St Annes Beach at the end of summer. Is this your first time hearing about the St Annes Kite Festival? Don’t worry—this is your guide to making the most of your first visit.

Let’s set the scene.

Imagine a charming seaside town, bustling with excitement for three whole days. The St Annes Kite Festival fills the skies with colour characters, while on the ground, food stalls and pop-up bars serve up the best of Lytham St Annes’ amazing food scene. (Did we mention how incredible the local fare is?)
From Friday to Sunday, the skies will be filled with colourful, larger-than-life kites in every shape and size, flown by seasoned professionals from all corners of the world. With six different flying areas and a dedicated dog-friendly area, you can enjoy the festival without compromising your furry friend’s happiness.
It’s going to be busy—car parks and hotel rooms will be packed, so here are some tips to help you plan ahead and make the most of your weekend at the St Annes Beach Kite Festival.

Your Pre-Plan Guide

1) Book your accommodation early.

The closer you get to the Kite Festival in St Annes, the harder it will be to find affordable accommodation. Hotels and vacation rentals fill up fast, especially for families. If you’re travelling with a group, consider staying at larger apartments—like the ones we offer—that can accommodate up to 6-8 people. However, be aware that these are the first to book out, so aim to reserve at least a month in advance.
2) Car parking tips.

Parking in St Annes can be challenging, especially if you arrive later in the day. There’s free roadside parking, but the Lancashire locals often grab these spots early. The council also offers paid parking near the beach, but these fill up quickly too. If you’re travelling from afar, make sure your accommodation is within walking distance of St Annes Pier and offers parking on-site to save time and effort as our apartments do.
3) Plan for picky eaters and special diets.

If you have kids with allergies or food intolerances, rest assured there are supermarkets just a 5-10 minute walk from St Annes Beach. If you’re staying with us, our apartments come equipped with full kitchens and cooking utensils, so you can prepare meals as needed.
4) Watch the weather.

This event is weather-dependent, so be sure to check the forecast before setting out. We recommend the Met Office app for the most reliable updates (although summer weather reports have been hit-and-miss). For the latest festival updates, follow Discover Fylde Facebook Page.
5) Bringing your dog?

St Annes is a dog-friendly town, but there are a few rules to note. If you’re facing the pier and looking out to sea, the area to the right is a dog exclusion zone. However, the festival has designated areas for dog owners to enjoy the kite displays with their pets.

Final Word

Whether you’re here for the colourful kites, the family-friendly atmosphere, or to simply enjoy a day out by the coast, the St Annes Kite Festival promises a weekend full of fun and excitement. Remember to plan ahead and make the most of your time at one of the most celebrated kite-flying events in Lancashire. Enjoy your stay, and don’t forget to look up!

Looking for family-friendly accommodation? Check out our apartments here