Every year, thousands of kite lovers, beach wanderers, and curious travelers gather on the central Oregon coast for one of the most visually stunning and family-friendly events in the Pacific Northwest: the Lincoln City Kite Festival. Held twice a year—once in June for the Summer Kite Festival and again in September for the Fall Kite Festival—this event turns the wide-open sands of D River State Recreation Site into a skyward carnival of color and creativity.
I had the pleasure of attending the Summer Kite Festival this year, and honestly, it’s hard to describe how magical it felt to stand on the beach with the Pacific waves crashing behind me and a sky above that looked like a living painting. Giant octopuses, whales, dragons, and even cartoon characters floated overhead, swaying with the coastal wind. These aren’t your everyday store-bought kites—many are handmade by professionals and enthusiasts from across the globe, some reaching over 100 feet in length.
The town of Lincoln City itself plays the perfect host. Located right off Highway 101, a coastal town known for its antique shops, seafood restaurants, and a strong sense of community. During the kite festival, the atmosphere becomes carnival-like, but without the overwhelming crowds. It’s cheerful, casual, and welcoming.
The main action happens at D River Wayside, a beach access point that's famous for being home to one of the shortest rivers in the world. But what it lacks in river length, it makes up for with a sweeping stretch of sand that’s perfect for kite-flying. When I arrived early on Saturday morning, the beach was already buzzing. Volunteers were helping families make their own kites at the free kids' workshop tent, while music played over the loudspeakers and the sky was slowly filling with enormous flying creatures.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of the festival is watching the synchronized kite routines performed by professional teams. These skilled fliers use long, delicate lines and dual or quad-line kites to perform choreographed routines to music, making their kites dip, dive, and spin in time with the beat. I caught myself holding my breath at times, mesmerized by the control and grace they demonstrated in the air.
In addition to the kite flying, there were food vendors set up along the grassy areas near the beach. I grabbed an Indian taco from Kristi’s Food Truck, which is run by members of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. It was delicious—hearty, flavorful, and the perfect beachside meal. There were also carnival-style games for kids, local artists selling handcrafted goods, and even a "wind garden" display, where kites were staked into the sand like sculptures, gently bobbing in the breeze.
Sunday included a special tribute that really tugged at the heartstrings—a memorial for kite fliers who are no longer with us. Everyone paused for a moment as kites were launched in their honor. It was quiet, reflective, and surprisingly emotional. It reminded me that while the festival is playful and fun, it's also a deep-rooted tradition for many people in the kite-flying community.
If you're planning to attend, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, dress in layers. The Oregon coast can be unpredictable, with fog rolling in and wind picking up quickly. I was glad I brought a windbreaker and extra socks. Second, parking near the beach can be tight, but the city provides free shuttles from the Lincoln City Community Center and the Outlets. It’s a smooth and easy ride, and the shuttle drivers are friendly and full of local tips.
I also recommend bringing a picnic if you’re planning to spend the whole day on the beach. While there are food vendors, lines can get long around lunchtime. And don’t forget a blanket or some low beach chairs—there’s nothing better than leaning back and watching the sky swirl with color while your toes are buried in the sand.
The Lincoln City Kite Festival is a rare event that offers something for everyone—families, solo travelers, photographers, kids, and anyone who just wants to breathe in some fresh ocean air and reconnect with a sense of play and many of the fliers are more than happy to answer questions and show you how their creations work. It’s a community that invites you in with open arms and flying lines.
After spending the weekend surrounded by wind and wonder, I left with a small kite of my own, a sunburned nose, and had a really great time. If you’re looking for a unique travel experience that combines art, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun, mark your calendar for next year’s Lincoln City Kite Festival. Trust me—it’s worth the trip.
