Southend’s First EVER Kite Festival lifts off this Saturday

A free day out for all the family at Southend’s alternative airshow – no jets, just joy.

Southend’s sky is set to burst into colour this Saturday, 19th July, as the Kite Festival takes flight along Eastern Esplanade from 11am to 5pm.

Bring your kites, your family, and your sense of wonder for this free, family-friendly event stretching between Billy Hundreds/Ocean Beach and the Roslin Beach Hotel. Whether you’re a seasoned kite flyer or digging one out of the loft for the first time in years, everyone is welcome — no bookings, no fees, just turn up and take to the skies!

As part of the festival you can expect a lively atmosphere and a sky filled with kites of all shapes and sizes. From Essex Kitesurfers dancing across the waves to the Essex Police Marine Unit and RNLI joining in on the shore, it promises to be a day to remember.

There are no food traders on site, but that’s just an excuse to explore the brilliant cafes, bars, and restaurants lining the Esplanade.

The festival opens at 11am and at 11:04am a minutes silence will be observed for the 4 people lost in Sunday’s air crash at Southend Airport.

Before the festival, at 10 O’clock you can join in with Surfers Against Sewage and Southend BeachCare who have an organised beach clean.

Plus, look out for the Southend City Radio team on the beach! As experts in live and studio audio, our volunteers have spent years untangling cables — and now, we’re putting those skills to use for kite flyers. Got in a tangle that won’t budge? We’ll be offering free kite untangling all day. Just come and say hello!

Pack your kite, bring some water, and come join Southend’s alternative airshow – no jets, just joy.

Getting There:

• By Train: Southend East station is your best bet, with just a 10-minute walk to the beach. You can also reach us via Southend Central or Thorpe Bay.

• By Bus: Hop on the Ensign Route 99 for a scenic ride along the seafront, or catch the number 9 from Southend Travel Centre.

• By Car: Park at Gas Works Car Park (near Premier Inn) or Southchurch Park East. Charges apply, so check the council website.