Kites soar and snow takes shape at Milwaukee festival on New Year's Day

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Skies are set to fill with vibrant kites while snow transforms into art during Milwaukee's 37th annual "Cool Fool Kite and Snow Carving Festival" at Veterans Park.

The event aims to blend the art of kite flying with the craft of snow carving on Monday, Jan. 1, 2024 at 11 a.m., available to all ages.

The festival will be hosted by the Kite Society of Wisconsin & Illinois along with Gift of Wings, and it is a long-standing Milwaukee tradition. It will align with the Polar Bear's plunge into Lake Michigan and is expected to continue until around 5 p.m.

"Jake, the Kite Guy" will be flying a variety of his large kits, some stretching over 100 feet in length.

The festival, free to the public, also offers kites and hot food for purchase. Gift of Wings will also be providing complimentary hot chocolate, coffee and snacks.

Adding to the festivities, the "Quiet Snow and Ice Carvers" will showcase their skills. Led by Bob Lechtenberg, this team of national champions will be turning blocks of snow into unique designs.

More information can be found by visiting Gift of Wings online.