The much-anticipated St Annes Kite Festival is set to return later this month, promising a sky filled with hundreds of kites.

The annual event attracts visitors from across the UK and beyond, with this year’s festival expected to be the biggest yet.

Organised by SmileFactor10 in partnership with Fylde Council, the event will feature nearly 250 flyers and extend into Saturday evening.

The free festival begins on Friday, September 13, running from noon until 10pm, and includes an illuminated kite flying evening.

Spectators can expect to see kites adorned with flashing lights soaring through the sky, accompanied by floodlit inflatables in various shapes.

The evening will conclude with a sound and light spectacular.

The festival continues over the weekend, starting at 11am on both days, ending at 10pm on Saturday and 4pm on Sunday, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Five arenas will be set up on either side of St Annes Pier, with more kites than ever before taking flight for what promises to be ‘a weekend of awe-inspiring aerial displays and family-friendly fun’.

From giant inflatable kites to artistic creations and ‘thrilling’ sport kite performances, there will be something for everyone.

Attendees can also enjoy live music, ‘delicious’ food and drink, and funfair rides.

In a new addition for 2024, organisers have extended Saturday’s festivities until 10pm, featuring live beach music and ‘a spectacular’ fireworks display from 9.30pm.

The skies above St Annes will burst into life with the 2024 kite festival featuring spectacular high-flying antics, workshops, and demonstrations for enthusiasts eager to delve into the art of kite flying.

Families are encouraged to bring their own kites or buy one on the spot to join in the aerial fun.

Sue Kennedy from SmileFactor 10 shared her enthusiasm: “We’re excited to be back for 2024 and look forward to welcoming new friends from across the world and closer to home.”

She expressed gratitude stating: “A big thank you to Fylde Council for their ongoing support, and to the fantastic kite fliers who return year after year.”

Councillor Jayne Nixon, championing tourism, leisure and culture at Fylde Council, is eagerly anticipating the event: “This will be a fabulous event once again, and I can’t wait to see the skies of St Annes awash with colour of all shapes and sizes.”

She added her thanks to those powering the event: “I thank the organisers, supporters, and sponsors for their kind support.

“It’s great to see such a busy weekend on the coast with an array of events for everyone.”

For an immersive experience, visitors often book St Annes Beach Huts, offering a prime view, although they are currently full.

But with luck, last-minute cancellations announced on their Facebook page may offer a chance to snag a spot.

The entire festival hinges on the weather, however, and for safety reasons, the programme could shift without notice.