Support Mental Health Awareness at Cape Town International Kite Festival 2026

The iconic Cape Town International Kite Festival returns for its 32nd year in 2026, inviting visitors of all ages to come together and #ColourTheSky in celebration of community and mental health awareness. The event brings together thousands of kite-flyers and viewers every year, making for a vibrant and whimsical day out in the October sun. Here’s everything visitors, new and old, need to know.

Spring Weekend Activities For A Good Cause

Since launching in 1994, Cape Mental Health has hosted the city’s International Kite Festival, encouraging conversations around mental wellbeing and raising funds for essential mental health initiatives across the country.

Every year brings its own theme, ensuring no edition is exactly the same, while using each hashtag as a way to kick-start the mental health conversation. This year is all about #ColourTheSky, a message that brings together the act of kite-flying with the need for fostering community. In the festival’s own words: “Just as every kite adds its own splash of colour to the sky, every act of compassion can bring hope, encourage connection and remind someone that they are not alone.”

As always, visitors can expect to see dynamic displays from local and international kite flyers, with huge kites taking over the spring skies over a two-day weekend. It is always an ideal day out for families, with kids enjoying the kite shows while parents get involved in the deeper discussion. However, the event is just as suited to visitors of all ages, with a range of interactive activities, food vendors, and kite-themed experiences on both days.

Beyond the festival, the Cape Town International Kite Festival continues to expand its reach with online and community-based events, including the inclusive EduKite competition for learners from both mainstream schools and schools for children with special needs, their Heideveld Community Fly, children’s activities, and a variety of kites for sale.

Those who cannot attend the event can consider making a donation to Cape Mental Health. All funds raised support Cape Mental Health’s essential free mental health support services across the Western Cape, which gives individuals and families the care and help they need. Their list of programmes and initiatives is available on the website.

How to Book Tickets

Africa’s oldest kite festival and one of the most recognised mental health awareness events in the country, the Cape Town International Kite Festival is a must-visit for those wanting to support community initiatives and enjoy a sunny day out in Cape Town.

Cost: R80 per adult (day access) | R50 per child (day access) | R160 per adult (weekend pass) | R100 per child (weekend pass). Tickets available on Quicket.