Cool Kites on the Lake happens each February during the Detroit Lakes Polar Fest — Giant kites take the lake as professional kite flyers bring their spectacular giant kites to color the skies. Kites range in size from 10 to 100 feet!
On Little Detroit Lake near West Lake Drive
Detroit Lakes, Minnesota
View photos and video from Cool Kites 2025 below.
Mark your calendars for 2026!
Cool Kites will be flying high on
Sunday, February 15th
- Sunday, February 15th, 2026 on Little Detroit Lake near West Lake Drive.
- Bring your own kite to fly along with the pros!
- Kites start flying at 10 am, depending on the wind.
- FREE event! No pre-registration necessary.
- Safety Notes: Be sure to monitor ice thickness for safety.
Kites start flying at 10 am, depending on the wind. Timing is approximate based on wind speeds and weather, but kites should be flying by 10:00 am and will fly as long as possible!
Bundle up and join us on the ice to watch the Cool Kites on Ice Festival. Feel free to bring a kite of your own to fly!
Presented in Partnership
A huge thank-you to our sponsors — Beachfront Haven, GoGo Rental, and Holiday Inn Detroit Lakes – Lakefront — for their generous support of Cool Kites on the Lake 2026!
Because of their commitment to our community, families and friends can experience this winter color, creativity, and high-flying fun on the Lake!
Be sure to support the businesses that support community moments like these — and join us Sunday, February 15, for a sky full of kites!
2026 Lodging Sponsor
Lake views, winter adventures, and a warm, comfortable place to come back to. From downtown strolls to City Park festivities, this is winter, done cozy ⇢ Learn more here!
2026 Event Sponsor
Experience Detroit Lakes with quality rentals ⇢ Learn more here!
2024 Gallery
Click on photos to enlarge into full scene
