Filey Kite Festival
Giant Inflatables, Sea Breezes and High-Flying Coastal Fun.

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Posted on 24th July 2026

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Each September, the exposed headland atop Filey Brigg transforms into a massive, open-air canvas of colour as the annual Filey Kite Festival takes to the cliffs. Driven by the steady North Sea breezes, the event draws some of the UK’s most talented kite flyers for a weekend of synchronized flying and giant inflatable displays.

Running from Friday 18th to Sunday 20th September 2026, this free-to-enter spectacle offers a brilliant late-summer day out on the Yorkshire coast, combining world-class kite displays with fairground rides, workshop zones, and local street food stalls.

What to Expect on the Headland 🪁

Perched high above the waves at Filey Country Park, the natural elevation creates perfect wind conditions. Looking up, you're likely to see everything from 30-foot floating sea creatures and giant pandas to hyper-agile stunt kites dancing in formation.

• Friday Night Flight (New for 2026): The festival kicks off on Friday evening (6:30 PM to 9:00 PM) with a special dusk flying session, featuring illuminated LED kites glowing against the sunset sky.
• Daytime Flying (Sat & Sun): The main arena operates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily, hosted by expert commentators explaining the mechanics behind the massive professional rigs.
• Learn to Fly & Workshops: Kids and beginners can bring their own kites or join dedicated flying zones to learn launching and steering techniques from seasoned pros.

Food, Drink, & On-Ground Fun 🍟🧸

While the skies hold most of the drama, there is plenty happening on terra firma to keep everyone entertained throughout the day.

• Local Food Traders: A hand-picked selection of local street food vendors—including traders from the popular Filey Food Festival—serve hot treats, gourmet burgers, artisan coffees, and ice creams.
• Fairground & Teddy Bear Drop: Children can enjoy traditional rides and participate in the popular Teddy Bear Drop, where young visitors can watch their own soft toys take flight via miniature parachutes (weather permitting).

Photo Gallery

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Plan Your Visit 📅

Essential event details for organizing your day out on the cliff tops:

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Admission Cost

FREE ENTRY

Completely free for all pedestrians and spectators. No tickets or advance booking required!

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2026 Festival Times

Fri 18th Sept: 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM (Night Flight)
Sat 19th & Sun 20th Sept: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

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Dog Friendly

Dogs are welcome across the festival ground, provided they are kept on a lead at all times.

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Terrain & Accessibility

Hosted on flat grass cliff tops. Suitable for pushchairs and mobility scooters, though ground can soften after rain.

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Weather & Wind Notice

All flying schedules and specific giant kite launches depend entirely on local wind conditions. Coastal wind can be cold, so warm layers are recommended!

Getting There 🗺️

📍 Event Location:

Filey Country Park, Church Cliff Drive, Filey, North Yorkshire, YO14 9ET

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🚗 By Car & Parking

Easily accessible via the A165. Pay-and-display parking is available directly on-site at the Filey Country Park car park. Spaces fill quickly around midday, so arriving early or attending the Friday evening session is recommended.

🚌 By Public Transport

The nearest rail hub is Filey Railway Station (Northern Rail coastal line). It is a pleasant 15-to-20-minute uphill walk through town to the cliff top. Regular local bus services run into Filey bus station from nearby Scarborough and Bridlington.