Funding issues puts future of Mayo International Kite Festival in serious doubt

The future of the Mayo International Kite Festival which takes place this weekend in Achill is uncertain due to funding concerns.

The Mayo International Kite Festival has been running in Achill Island since 2017 and each year has attracted hundreds of people to Keel beach and Keel lake to see dolphins, crocodiles, whales and giant teddy bears among the many creatures take over the Achill skyline.

However, this year may be its last year after Pure Magic, the Achill-based water sports activity company which organises the event expressed concern over its viability into the future.

“Over the years, we’ve filled the skies with colour, joy, and community spirit, and brought local and international kite teams and their incredible kites to our shores. We’re so grateful to each of you for making it possible.

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“However, after years of making this international non profit festival a huge success, we now find ourselves on dangerous ground that threatens to end this community led event. As the festival has grown, so has the cost!

“With reduced financial support and funding opportunities, hosting a free festival of this scale is costing Pure Magic a significant amount each year. We continue to do it for the love of Achill, for bringing simple pleasures to kids and families alike, and because kites connect us to the island, the elements, the environment, and the people who make us who we are.

“But, that said and a heavy heart, unless we can secure decent funding for 2026 and beyond, this will be our final Mayo International Kite Festival,” explained Francois Collusi of Pure Magic.

The 2025 Festival takes place this weekend with flights taking place on Saturday with the main event taking place from 1pm to 5pm on Sunday, July 27 at Keel lake.

Mr Collusi explained that to keep this year's festival free and open and to celebrate Pure Magic's 15th anniversary weekend in 2025, they are adding straightforward workshops and easy-setup activities with a simple donation option.

“Every contribution, no matter how small, will go directly into bringing our amazing International kite fliers, the production, the essential services provided at this event like toilets, health and safety, and beyond. Your support will help us deliver a safe, reliable, and fill the skies with magical kites once more.

“Most importantly, we want to say a huge, heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s been part of this journey, our partners, friends, volunteers, local neighbours, and all the incredible supporters who have believed in this dream and helped it take flight,” he added.