Kite Fly Festival returns to Naperville's Frontier Park

Imagine a Harley revving its engine in the sky.

That's the sound of the custom Hawaiian kite, a delta-shaped object that is just one of many that will fly over Naperville's Frontier Park on Sunday, June 6.

As many as 40 kite-flying professionals will show off their skills at the fourth annual Naperville Park District Frontier Kite Fly Festival, 3380 Cedar Glade Drive.

While there won't be a pack of Harley Davidson motorcycles suspended in the sky, there may be an octopus, Nemo, a gecko and a manta ray.

The festival has drawn more than 5,000 people annually with professionals and visitors flying kites that range in cost from $5 to $15,000.

This year's event has been scaled back from two days to a one-day festival because of a lack of sponsor funding.

Despite funding constraints, David Zavell, owner of Chicago Kite, said he's glad the park district still could host the festival that is free family fun.

"It's a great way for the families to come out without video games," Zavell said. "They can actually make something fly or just have a good time with the family."

People are encouraged to bring a blanket, picnic and make a day of it.

In addition to the professional kites, there will be an area dedicated to kids. For $5, kids can jump in inflatable bounce houses or learn in the amateur fly area where the pros will help them launch a kite and learn tricks.

Most people organizing an outdoor event hope for good weather, which usually means a good spectator turnout.

In kite flying, bad weather means a canceled event.

"We can't be out in open fields in thunderstorms," Zavell said. "If it's drizzling, some of the kites won't fly because of potential damage to their kites."

But kite leaders say they stay positive and always wish for sunny, breezy skies.

"We want some nice good breezy weather," he said.

Several free demonstrations will be led by fliers from Chicago Kite and Illinois Kite Enthusiasts Club, among others.

In addition to the flying, several performances are on the schedule. Naperville Park District Tai Chi performs at 10 a.m. followed by the Naperville Park District Dance Academy at 11 a.m. Dave Byron performs live music at 12:30 p.m. and Andrew Huber at 2:30 p.m.

For information on the free event, visit napervilleparks.org or call (630) 848-5000.

<p class="factboxheadblack">Frontier Kite Fly</p> <p class="News"><b>When:</b> 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, June 6</p> <p class="News"><b>Where:</b> Frontier Park, 3380 Cedar Glade Drive, Naperville</p> <p class="News"><b>Cost:</b> Free</p> <p class="News"><b>Info:</b> <a href="http://napervilleparks.org" target="new">napervilleparks.org</a> or (630) 848-5000</p>