After a pandemic-induced hiatus, the skies above Cape Town will once again burst into colour, creativity and courage this weekend as the 31st Cape Town International Kite Festival takes flight.

The festival also returns with a special purpose, celebrating the bravery it takes to face life’s challenges, particularly in relation to mental health.

For the first time since the Covid-19 pandemic, the festival will take place over two full days, on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October 2025 and will be hosted at a brand-new venue, the Youngsfield Military Base in Ottery.

The festival promises a spectacular showcase of kites from both local and international participants, alongside live entertainment, kite-making workshops, food stalls, and an amusement area for children.

Designed as a safe and uplifting family outing, it also carries a deeper message highlighting the importance of mental health awareness and compassion in building a resilient society.

Kiters from around the world have arrived in South Africa to fly for Cape Mental Health and raise awareness about mental well-being.

Among them are Marcel and Petra Kramer from Germany, Markus and Katja Flender from Germany, Derek Kuhn from the UK, Jean Louis Castanier and Odile Delorme from Réunion Island, Gill and Jon Bloom from the UK, and Lambert and Alice Romuald from Réunion Island.

Since its inception in 1994, the Cape Town International Kite Festival has been organised annually by Cape Mental Health as part of its mission to promote awareness, inclusion and resilience. Each kite that takes to the sky is a vivid symbol of freedom, creativity, and the courage it takes to seek help, speak openly, and support those on their mental health journeys.

This year’s theme, #CourageToFly, was chosen in response to ongoing global challenges from political and social instability to the lingering effects of the pandemic all of which have contributed to rising rates of anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions.

In South Africa, an estimated 16.5% of the population lives with a mental disorder, and stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to treatment and recovery.

Cape Mental Health Chief Executive Officer, Professor Doctor Ingrid Daniels, said the festival is a tribute to the strength and courage of those living with mental health conditions.

“Like a kite soaring against strong winds, people living with mental health conditions inspire us all to hold on, rise above, and find strength to persevere.”

Beyond the weekend’s festivities, the festival continues to broaden its impact through initiatives such as the EduKite competition for schools, the Heideveld Community Fly, and a range of inclusive activities that ensure children and adults of all abilities can take part.

tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za

Weekend Argus 

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