Experience the Midwest’s Biggest Winter Kite Festival in Clear Lake, Iowa!

Clear Lake, Iowa, is buzzing with excitement for the return of the Color the Wind Kite Festival on Saturday, February 21, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. This isn’t just a kite show—it’s the biggest winter kite festival in the Midwest, and it’s back better than ever!

Why You Should Go

Get ready for a jaw-dropping display of massive, colorful kites dancing above Clear Lake’s frozen surface. These aren’t your backyard kites—think giant inflatables, intricate designs, and mesmerizing choreography set to music. The best kite flyers in the country are coming to Clear Lake to put on a show, and admission is totally free (donations welcome!).

✨ New This Year: Ice Skating in City Park
Make a full winter day of it! Clear Lake is debuting a modular ice skating rink in City Park during Color the Wind. Bring your own skates, warm up between kite displays, and add a little glide to your winter festival experience.

Tips for a Great Day

  • Dress warm: Layers, gloves, and a hat are a must.
  • Bring sunglasses: The reflection off the snow and ice can be bright.
  • Stay safe: No driving or parking on the ice in the festival area.

Make It a Weekend

Lodging in Clear Lake fills up fast for this popular event. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy the festival and explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and cozy stays. Book your accommodations now to secure your spot for a winter weekend getaway.

Event Details

  • When: Saturday, February 15, 2025, 11 a.m.–4 p.m.
  • Where: Downtown Clear Lake on the ice.
  • What’s Happening:
    • Spectacular kite displays.
    • Food trucks and local restaurants.
    • Kite shopping and flying opportunities.
    • Free shuttle service for easy access.

FAQs

  • Ice Conditions: We’re monitoring ice and weather conditions closely with our Color the Wind safety team. Ice checks continue as we get closer to Feb. 21, and safety is always the priority. Planning is moving forward as scheduled, and we’ll share updates if anything changes.
  • Parking: On-street parking available outside closed areas, plus free shuttle routes.
  • Kite Flying: Bring your kite, but steer clear of the big displays!

Other Saturday activities:

Step inside and keep the day going with a mix of music, art and history!

Surf Ballroom is open from 10am-5pm, with tours of the Music Experience Center now open. Walk through Clear Lake’s music legacy with rare exhibits and an immersive experience that set the stage before you explore the Surf itself.

Clear Lake Arts Center is open from 10am-4pm. Step into a world of color, light, and imagination with a hands-on art activity for all ages. Participants will design their own stained-glass inspired window using construction paper and glowing cellophane, exploring how layered shapes transform when light shines through.

Clear Lake Public Library Activities:
10:30am: Color the Wind Story Time
12-4pm: The Library Meeting Room will be open as a warming house with games and crafts to enjoy while you take a break from the cold. A hot chocolate bar will also be available.

Plan Your Trip Today

The Color the Wind Kite Festival is the perfect reason to visit Clear Lake. From the soaring kites to the friendly vibe, this event is sure to brighten your winter. Book your stay now and get ready to Color the Wind!

For lodging and event info, visit Clear Lake, Iowa.

Thank you to our 2026 event sponsors!

Gold: Curries/ASSA ABLOY

Silver: CL Tel, Clear Lake Bank & Trust, Fareway, Rookies, Sevens, & TAP’d