The idea
This festival will deliver an inclusive, sensory-rich experience that brings people together, celebrating creativity, accessibility, and community spirit. Workshops for blind and partially sighted individuals will offer hands-on participation, fostering confidence, spatial awareness, and a deep connection to the environment. The event will strengthen social bonds, engage local schools and groups, and showcase Morecambe as a town that values inclusion. Beyond spectacle, it will generate economic benefits, increasing footfall, supporting local businesses, and promoting tourism. By creating a space where everyone can take part, regardless of ability, the festival will leave a lasting impact - building a stronger, more connected community. Strategic partnerships with organisations and educators will ensure the event’s legacy extends beyond a single weekend, making Morecambe a leader in accessible and socially valuable festivals.
What we'll deliver
- Professional displays of themed kites for all the family.
- Inclusive kite-making workshops designed for all, including blind and partially sighted individuals,
- Community engagement activities, partnering with local schools, organisations, and businesses to maximise participation.
- A fully managed, safe event, adhering to Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) guidelines with expert kite flyers.
Why it's a great idea
The festival will create an inclusive, shared experience that fosters community spirit, accessibility, and engagement. By providing kite-making workshops for blind and partially sighted individuals, it will empower participants, enhancing confidence, spatial awareness, and a sense of achievement. The event will strengthen social connections, bringing together families, schools, and diverse groups to celebrate creativity and inclusion. It will promote Morecambe as a welcoming, forward-thinking town, encouraging tourism and boosting the local economy. The festival will also inspire civic pride, demonstrating how public events can be truly accessible. Through strategic partnerships with educators, community groups, and businesses, it will leave a lasting legacy, making inclusive, socially impactful festivals the standard rather than the exception. Ultimately, it will create a space where everyone feels valued, connected, and part of something bigger.
Steps to get it done
- Project Approval – secure confirmation from Lancaster City Council by 12 February 2025 to proceed with the festival.
- Partnerships Established – finalise partnerships with the Northern Kite Group (NKG) and community organisations by Feb
- Funding Secured – Complete funding applications and secure financial backing by 31 March 2025.
- Volunteer Recruitment – open volunteer sign-ups and recruit key festival volunteers by 15 April 2025.
- Workshop Design - develop and finalise workshops for kite-making, and other activities by 30 April 2025.
- Marketing Launch – Begin marketing and social media campaign to promote the festival by 1 June 2025.
- Festival Preparations – complete all event logistics, including signage, kite materials, and safety measures.
- Festival Launch – Successfully host the Kite Festival, ensuring all activities and workshops run smoothly
The event will help the environment by promoting sustainability through eco-friendly kite materials and reducing waste with responsible event planning. It will boost the local economy by attracting tourists, increasing foot traffic to local businesses, and creating jobs, from event staff to local suppliers. Through partnerships with schools and community groups, the festival will offer educational workshops that enhance tactile learning, especially for visually impaired participants, fostering skills in creativity and teamwork. The festival will encourage volunteering, as local residents and organisations support the event, offering opportunities for community involvement. It will celebrate Morecambe’s heritage and culture by showcasing local traditions, fostering pride, and highlighting the town's commitment to inclusion. The event will promote physical activity by encouraging people of all ages to participate in kite flying and outdoor workshops, providing an engaging experience.
