Aila Boyd
Roanoke County will celebrate a milestone this spring as the 25th annual Blue Ridge Kite Festival returns to Green Hill Park on Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The free, rain-or-shine event will once again fill the skies with thousands of colorful kites while offering a full day of family-friendly entertainment, activities and food.
Kite demonstrations throughout the day will be presented by the Richmond Air Force Kite Club, whose members will showcase flying techniques and share tips with attendees. Free kites also will be distributed, courtesy of United Healthcare, while supplies last.
Families and children can visit the Activity Zone for crafts and hands-on activities, while vendors will offer a variety of kites and handmade artisan items. To mark the festival’s 25th year, guests also can take part in a commemorative photo opportunity sponsored by Va811.
Therapeutic Recreation Services will provide a sensory tent experience designed for individuals of all ages and abilities who may need a space to relax, refocus and comfortably transition back into the larger event setting.
A wide selection of food vendors will be on-site, featuring menu options ranging from pulled pork and cheeseburgers to Asian rice bowls, vegan selections, ice cream and Italian ice. Participating vendors include Birdogs, Bootleg BBQ, Brew Initiative Coffee, Charlee Tropical Italian Ice & Drinks, Empanada Nirvana, Get Glazed, Hangrcy, Mountain Grille, Royal Creamery & Icery, Saigon Street Eats, Snack Shack, Star City Bodega, SWVA Concessions and The Hot Dog Girl.
Festival organizers encourage residents and visitors alike to bring their families and enjoy a day of kite flying, food and activities at one of the Roanoke Valley’s signature spring events.
More information is available at RoanokeCountyParks.com/Kite.
