Kites of every size and colour will fill the sky at Harden Racecourse this weekend during the 20th annual Harden Kite Festival. Photo: Harden Kite Festival/Facebook.
Kites of every shape and shade will fill the Harden sky this Saturday, as the 20th Harden Kite Festival celebrates two decades of colour, creativity and country spirit.
Held at the Harden Racecourse on October 11, the all-day festival has grown from a local get-together into one of the Hilltops region’s signature spring events, drawing visitors from across NSW to see the sky transformed into a patchwork of movement and light.
Organisers are hoping for the perfect breezy conditions as kites of all sizes fill the sky in a vibrant display of colour and shape — from the large exhibition kites featuring beloved cartoon characters (possibly even Lightning McQueen) and giant flying sea creatures, to the smaller, whimsical designs launched by festival-goers.
This community event is all about families and fun with picnic rugs and folding chairs encouraged as is participation in the free activities packed into the 10 am- 4 pm program.
Around the grounds, there’s something for everyone. Kids can get faces painted, decorate kites, make badges, play in a giant sand pit or meet the animals in the petting zoo.
The festival officially opens at 11 am with the rhythmic thunder of the Prosperous Mountain Lion Dance troupe, followed by live sets from the Kapooka Army Band and Little Riverina Band as well as Murrumburrah High School and Young Town Band. With musical performances scheduled the entire day, just the action on the main stage is enough to keep visitors entertained.
But there are also displays including ‘The Wiggles’ Big Red Car – thanks to Transport for NSW – a community kite stall and Harden’s own Fire and Rescue team.
Roaming performers include the Kapooka “Pep” Band, a bubble artist, Just Circus and, again, the Prosperous Mountain Lion Dance troupe.
Local makers will be selling crafts and produce, while food stalls will be serving up a delicious menu of food options.
And then there’s the fairground rides for those chasing a little extra excitement, with an all-day ride pass for $25, or a three-person bundle for $60.
On the flying field, experienced kite enthusiasts put on a show of their own. The big kite display dominates the skyline — massive, custom-built designs shaped like whales, octopuses and superheroes glide against the horizon.
Nearby, first-timers get guidance from veteran flyers during casual demonstrations that cover trimming, launch techniques and how to handle a crosswind.
As the afternoon unfolds, the Fire and Rescue team adds some drama with its live “car cut-up” demonstration, showing how emergency crews work in real-time rescues.
The 2:30 pm display always draws plenty of onlookers before families settle back to enjoy the final hours of flight.
The volunteer-run event is alcohol-free and keeps its friendly, low-key feel with a $2 entry donation and a focus on family fun.
Harden Racecourse is located on the eastern outskirts of Harden-Murrumburrah on Burley Griffin Way.
More information on the Harden Kite Festival and the full program is available here.
