ABC Kite Fest, the largest and longest-running festival of its kind, will return to Zilker Park on Sunday, April 14, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. This year’s festival will mark the 96th edition of one of the most celebrated gatherings of the Austin community—which hosted an estimated 50,000 attendees in 2023. With kite flying at the center of festivities, Austinites and their families will have access to a variety of fun, all-ages activities as well as food and drinks from beloved local vendors.
Flyers of all ages will find something to do at the 96th edition of ABC Kite Fest:
* The Exchange Club Kite Showcase & Contest, presented by H-E-B (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.): The free-to-enter community contest is open to all and includes categories such as “most unusual kite” and “highest angle kite.” Registration for the contest begins at 11 a.m., and participants may enter contest events, which take place from 1 to 4 p.m., with handmade or store-bought kites. ABC Kite Fest’s showcase, which features some of the world’s premier kite flyers showing off their skills, will run alongside the contest throughout the festival.
* The High Flyer Club, presented by Texas Mutual (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.): The High Flyer Club is a VIP experience for those who want to attend the kite fest in style. VIP passes include early entry into the festival, access to reserved parking, specialty food options and a private air-conditioned restroom. Passes for the High Flyer Club are on sale today for $100 (a discounted early bird price of $75 is available through March 31 with code “EARLYBIRD2024”).
* MossFest, a children’s concert presented by PNC Bank (10 a.m. – 1 p.m.): Hosted by the Moss Pieratt Foundation, MossFest celebrates the life of John “Moss” Pieratt, Jr., his love for music and people, and the joy he inspired in others. This year’s MossFest will feature beloved artists like Barton Hills Choir, Justin Roberts, DiscoTex and Mr. Will from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the center of the Kids Club. Following the concert, family friendly programming will continue on the MossFest stage.
* The Kids Club, presented by Texas Children’s (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.): Built for children of all ages, the Kids Club features free bounce houses and activities to keep kids engaged throughout the festival.
* Pet Zone, presented by Austin Subaru (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.): Pet Zone features an off-leash pet playground pop-up within the festival that offers fun activities (and a little exercise) for your furry friends—including a three-ring jump and tunnel run. Rock climbing walls are also available for (human) recreation.
* Food and drink (10 a.m. – 5 p.m.): Onsite food trucks and concession stands will serve local favorites throughout the day, including Amy’s Ice Creams, JP’s Pancake Company and Chi’Lantro BBQ.
Pre-paid parking and shuttle bus passes are available on the ABC Kite Fest website.