This weekend the Village of Callaway will welcome hundreds of visitors for an annual event that has become a staple in central Nebraska – Kite Flight. It happens every Labor Day weekend at Foster Smith Field, four miles southeast of Callaway on Highway 40.

“I was 8-years-old the year Connie May launched this event, and I was immediately hooked,” shared Kindle Rice, organizer of this year’s event. “But I also grew up flying kites in the cornfield by our house so perhaps it wasn't a far reach to pique my curiosity. I am so thrilled to be able to continue her legacy, vision, and passion and I am hopeful I can keep the event running long into the future.”

One of the challenges with an event as long running as Kite Flight is to try to keep it new and fresh year after year. Rice is doing that by adding a couple of new attractions in 2024 that she hopes will be well received.

“We have added a few new things to the roster this year; barrel train rides for the kids and axe throwing for the whole family. The barrel train is used at Pioneer Picnic and is always a huge hit with the younger kiddos. It will be free to ride with the price of admission and will run from 11-1 on both days,” Rice explained. “Kyle Berg has loaned us the use of his 4-wheeler and Kyle Wise has offered to drive. Our little three-person committee absolutely could not do this event without the help of the community, and we are so appreciative of the support.”

Axe throwing is also new and will be available on Sunday. There will be an adult lane and a kid's lane, making it a fun event for the whole family. “We will also have Lifting Spirits with face painting, balloon art, and glitter tattoos. They have come on Saturday for the last couple of years, but we are thrilled to have them both days this year,” said Rice. “This is also free for anyone with their paid admission. She is a crowd favorite and always has a long line.”

Smokin' Double D's of Hershey will be providing all of the food for this year’s Kite Flight. They will offer brisket, pulled pork, hamburgers and hot dogs. 'These guys are extraordinary and have helped me out of some sticky situations in the past few years and I am so grateful to have them back again this year,” Rice said. “And the food is excellent, so bring your appetite!”

Another new feature this year is Kona Ice from North Platte. They serve fun frozen drinks in a unique way that Rice said she thinks kids will love. The Plant Stand with cotton candy and the Teddy Bear Mobile of Central NE will also be on site on Saturday, offering tons of fun things for families to enjoy together.

“We will also have Show Stopper Kites out there again this year,” Rice added. “Roger always has a great assortment of kites and kiting equipment for sale for just about any budget. And he is a wealth of knowledge if you have a kite that you aren't quite sure how to use.”

Many attendees of the Kite Flight are repeats, and some are now bringing their own children to the event that they enjoyed as kids.

“We just want people and families to come out and enjoy their time together in the beautiful Nebraska countryside and make lasting memories,” said Rice. “I think that is the true legacy that Connie May hoped to pass on.”