Kites and Lights this weekend

LEAMINGTON — Southpoint Kites & Lights takes place this weekend, October 3 and 4.

Last year, the first Southpoint Kite Festival attracted over 1000 spectators as massive kites took to the air at the Leamington soccer fields.

This year, being 2020, things are a little different. The kites will be flying as they were last year, but all viewing will be from the comfort of your own vehicle.

“We’re trying to give families a sense of fun and magic,” said organizer George Paisiovich. “The theme is ‘Keep Looking Up.”

The free shows will take about an hour and anyone wanting to attend is asked to book a time slot online at https:// forms.gle/t78CGbDP- 6buiXAKh6. After booking, you’ll receive a golden ticket similar to that of Willy Wonka fame and you can print that golden ticket out. Upon arrival at the soccer field gates, you’ll display your golden ticket and be directed to your designated parking spot to watch the show.

Last year’s Southpoint Kite Festival was a big hit with local wind enthusiasts, including hundreds of children who got to experience kite flying up close and personal. This year’s event will have a twist, with kite flying shows being put on throughout the weekend, and spectators watching from their vehicles.

The shows will run Saturday and Sunday from 10 am until 3 pm, with a special night light show Saturday at 7pm.

Paisiovich figures they will have plenty of space for everyone.

“We have about 12 hours of show time, with room for about 100 cars per show,” he said.

Strict COVID-19 rules will be in place. There will be no food or washrooms available and spectators are asked to remain in their vehicles.

For more information, visit their Southpoint Kite Group Facebook page.