When the Sky Comes Alive: St Annes Kite Festival 2025

Three days of airborne artistry, seaside magic and the best seat in the house - right from your hotel window.

There's something truly magical about watching the sky above St Annes Beach transform into a living canvas of colour and movement. This weekend, from Friday 29th to Sunday 31st August 2025, the St Annes International Kite Festival returns to fill our skies with wonder and staying at The Grand Hotel St Annes means you'll have a front-row seat to one of the most spectacular free shows on the Lancashire coast.

From our terrace, we've watched guests point excitedly as enormous kites take shape against the backdrop of St Annes Beach. There's genuine joy in seeing a child's face light up at the sight of a giant octopus kite dancing overhead or couples holding hands as illuminated designs glow against the evening sky.

A Weekend of Sky Bound Spectacle

Friday 29th August (12 noon - 10pm)

‍The festival kicks off with daytime displays before building to the weekend's most magical moment, the spectacular illuminated kite flying display from dusk. As the sun sets over the Irish Sea and the first lights begin to twinkle, the sky transforms into something from a fairy tale. These aren't your average kites, we're talking about intricate, glowing artworks that seem to bring the stars down to dance above the waves.

Saturday 30th August (11am - 5pm)‍

The main day brings international kite flying teams to St Annes Beach, each showcasing designs you'll struggle to believe can actually fly. From enormous traditional dragons to modern artistic creations, the variety is breathtaking. The fairground adds seaside fun with rides and games, staying open into the evening for those who can't bear to leave.

Sunday 31st August (11am - 4pm)‍

The final day offers more colourful displays and your last chance to witness this annual spectacle. Perfect for a leisurely morning stroll along the beach with a proper seaside breakfast, watching the sky fill with wonder one more time.

What Makes This Festival Special

The St Annes International Kite Festival has become one of the premier kite events in the UK, attracting flyers and spectators from around the world. What sets it apart is the stunning location, that vast expanse of golden sand we're so proud of provides the perfect backdrop for displays, whilst the sea breeze creates ideal flying conditions.

The festival features professional kite flying teams alongside enthusiastic amateurs, creating displays that range from precision aerial ballet to pure artistic expression. You'll see everything from traditional diamond kites to massive inflatable creations that seem to defy physics.

Dog-Friendly Flying‍

There's a special flying area outside the dog control zone, so your furry friends can enjoy the spectacle too. Perfect for those who've brought their four-legged family members along for the day.

Your Perfect Festival Base

Here's where staying at The Grand Hotel St Annes becomes rather brilliant. Whilst other festival-goers are hunting for parking spaces or queuing for facilities, you're literally steps away from your comfortable room. Pop back for a proper cup of tea between displays, retreat to air conditioning if the sun gets too much or simply watch the action from our terrace with a glass of wine in hand.

The Grand Advantage:

• Walk to the festival in under two minutes
• Easy retreat for families with young children who need breaks
• Watch some displays right from your sea-view room
• No parking worries or long walks with festival gear
• Perfect spot for photography enthusiasts wanting to capture sunset kite displays

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Making the Most of Your Festival Weekend

Best Viewing Spots‍

The entire beach offers excellent views but the area near the pier tends to be the hub of activity. For photographers, the promenade provides elevated views perfect for capturing kites against the seascape.

What to Bring‍

The sea breeze can be refreshing, so layers are wise even in August. A camera is essential, the photographic opportunities are extraordinary. Consider a blanket for beach sitting, though you can always pop back to The Grand for refreshments.

Festival Food & Drink‍

Stroll the promenade to discover delicious festival stalls offering everything from traditional fish and chips to international treats. Alternatively, bring your own picnic and claim a spot on the sand. For something more substantial, our Cafe Grand offers seasonal dishes and local flavours, perfect for refueling between kite displays.

After experiencing the best fish and chips in the area or exploring St Annes Beach & Pier, the kite festival adds another layer of magic to your seaside break.

Beyond the Skies

Facilities & Comfort‍

The festival organisers provide info points, security, first aid and extra facilities including disabled access across the event. Everything's designed to make this a comfortable experience for all ages and abilities.

Evening Entertainment‍

Friday's illuminated display is genuinely unmissable but the fairground extending into Saturday evening means the fun doesn't stop when the sun goes down.

Why This Matters

From The Grand, we've watched the St Annes Kite Festival grow into something truly special. It's become more than just an event, it's a celebration of creativity, community and the pure joy of looking up and seeing something extraordinary against our beautiful coastline.

There's something rather wonderful about being part of a crowd all gazing skyward in wonder, pointing at the same spectacular sight, sharing that moment of collective amazement. It reminds you why the British seaside experience remains so magical, it's not just about the location, it's about the memories you create there.

Planning Your Festival Stay

The beauty of staying with us during festival weekend is that you get the best of both worlds, the excitement and spectacle of this incredible event, plus the luxury and comfort of retreating to The Grand when you need a break. Perfect for couples wanting a romantic weekend with a difference, families needing easy access and comfortable facilities or anyone who appreciates being in exactly the right place at exactly the right time.

Ready to secure the best seats for this year's festival? Our sea-view rooms offer spectacular vantage points and our team can recommend the perfect viewing times and spots for the most memorable experience.

Book your festival weekend: Check our current offers or join The Grand Club for early access to special festival packages.

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