Bondi's Festival of the Winds kite extravaganza turns 45

Sunday, Sept 8, Bondi Beach will again be transformed into a canvas of colour and culture with Festival of the Winds.

Festival of the Winds

Aside from being a great day on the beach, Festival of the Winds also has a very cute origin story. In 1978 a Sydney University student with a passion for wind energy and kite flying, John Silk, and a bunch of his mates dreamed up a festival that would, “showcase the beauty and joy of kites.” With Bondi Beach as their base, they launched the inaugural event on September 10th of that year. Little did they know, they were setting the stage for an annual tradition that would captivate audiences for decades.

Sunday, from 11am to 4pm, Bondi Beach will come alive with an array of spectacular kite displays, cultural performances, and family-friendly activities. Hosted by Waverley Council in partnership with the Australian Kite Flying Society (AKFS), this year’s festival will bring together some of Australia’s top kite makers and flyers, showcasing their creations. Whether you’re a seasoned kite enthusiast or a first-time flyer, you’ll be mesmerised by the skill on display.

Kite-making workshops will be happening, led by the talented Edgee and Jacquie Meng; or you can purchase a kite from one of the festival stalls; or just bring your own.

The iconic Bondi Pavilion will once again host entertainment reflecting the festival’s original spirit of music and dance performances including the captivating Suwitra Jaya Gamelon, the Balkan Romani beats of LoLo Lovina, and the Indian Jazz fusion of Shanti. Don’t miss the West African rhythms of Keyim Ba and the melodic talents of Loren Ryan, a Toyota Star Maker Winner and Golden Guitar Award Nominee.

Family Fun

The entertainment extends to the main stage with performances from the dynamic Black Joak Morris dance group, students from Rose Bay Secondary School Band, and the energetic Tap Pups. Musicians from Bondi Beach Public School and Feel Free Latin dance will also add to the festival’s all-ages vibe.

The Bondi Pavilion will feature kids’ workshops, face painting, a circus playground, roaming circus acts, pottery, and a petting zoo. Skate lessons and kite-making workshops offer additional activities to keep the whole family entertained.

The festival runs from 11am to 4pm. Given the expected crowds, it’s wise to leave the car at home as parking will be limited and roads around Bondi Beach will be closed. Public transport is highly recommended for a hassle-free experience.

Parking, traffic and road restrictions

Queen Elizabeth Drive (Bondi Beach car park) will be closed and other road closures and clearways will be in place.
On-street parking is strictly limited, so leave the car at home and catch public transport to the event. Additional bus services and trains will be running for the event.
To plan your trip, visit transportnsw.info
For full road closure and clearways information visit Live Traffic

Where: Bondi Beach
When: 11am to 4pm, Saturday, September 7
Price: FREE

bondipavilion.com.au