Garden Route Kite Festival was lots of Fun

The annual Garden Route Kite Festival, a celebration of art, culture, and the outdoors, graced the picturesque countryside out at Karatara on Sunday, 8 October.

The seventh edition of the event featured a diverse cast of guests, including Team Binsbergen from Gqeberha, Mari Ware-lane from Cape Town, Jacques Fourie from Pretoria, and Keith Mould from Sedgefield.

One notable aspect of the festival was its charitable mission. All proceeds from the festival went towards the Masithandane Bursary Fund. This fund played a pivotal role in transforming young lives, providing opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach. It enabled children from marginalized groups in Sedgefield to attend high schools in George and Knysna, covering crucial expenses such as transport, uniforms, shoes, and stationery.

In terms of activities, the festival introduced an exciting addition – human-powered race cars. For the very first time, teams of two or three people participated in an exhilarating race. It was a chance for festivalgoers to showcase their physical prowess, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event. There was also a family fun run.

The festival wouldn’t have been complete without its beloved traditions. The mass ascension of kites once again filled the skies with a kaleidoscope of colors and designs, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. Whether you were an avid kite enthusiast or a casual observer, this display never failed to amaze. For those who loved a challenge, the highest kite contest was a thrilling competition to watch or join.

The festival’s hallmark food and craft stalls were back in full force, offering an array of local cuisine and handcrafted goods. It was an opportunity to indulge in favorite flavors and purchase one-of-a-kind crafts from local artisans. For those in need of a peaceful retreat, the tea garden offered a serene escape. Here, attendees could unwind while taking in the breathtaking views, accompanied by a hot or cold drink and sweet or savory treat – a perfect way to appreciate both the scenery and a warm beverage.

The Garden Route Kite Festival continued to cater to a wide range of interests and age groups. From the thrilling kite displays by experts such as Team Binsbergen and Jacques Fourie to the heartwarming agility displays by Happy Dogs, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Children also enjoyed fun in the sun with a variety of carnival games with prizes to be won – hula-hooping, catching ducks, or tossing balls at the clowns.

Those who attended the festivities knew they were making a difference in the lives of local children, adding a meaningful purpose to the joyful celebrations.