It’s not a bird, and it’s definitely not a plane – it’s just tons of colorful kites. One of the area’s most high-flying events returns this weekend as the 27th annual Treasure Island Kite Festival takes place January 13 and 14.

Festivities will take place each day from 10 am – 5 pm at 10700 Gulf Blvd, right next to the Thunderbird Inn. The Treasure Island Sport Kite Competition & Festival will feature show kites, kite demos, a hot ticks competition, free stunt kite lessons, and even a kite ballet set to music with some of the world’s best kite enthusiasts.

Competitive kite fliers are coming from all over the country to compete and showcase their skills for all to see, and there will be a special local flair, as the Madeira Beach Fundamental School is the country’s first school-based sport kite team.

Showcases will take place each day, and the entire event is free and family-friendly. For more to do on the beach, the annual John’s Pass Seafood Festival is just around the corner, too.