From 3D dragons and a 90-foot-long gecko to a 150-foot-long octopus, an array of kites ranging from different patterns, shapes and sizes will be soaring over the Island this weekend.

B&S Kites, in conjunction with the City of South Padre Island and the Cameron County Park System, will host the annual three-day SPI Kite Fest beginning tonight with sold out indoor kite performances.

Although tickets for tonight’s indoor portion of the kite festival are sold out, the outdoor kite festival tomorrow and Saturday is free and open to the public.

Several kite fliers from around the country are scheduled to display massive “show kites” on the flats just north of the South Padre Convention Center throughout Friday and Saturday.

“ We have people flying their kites with music and demonstrating choreographed routines,” said B&S Kites co-owner and organizer Bill Doan. “It is precision flying at its best and the scene is just beautiful. It makes you feel like a kid again.”

Doan encourages attendees to bring sunscreen and chairs to the kite festival Friday and Saturday.

“ Make the Island your destination the first weekend in February and you’ll be delighted you did,” Doan said. “You’ll get amazing photos to share with your friends and may even start a new tradition.”

By ALANA HERNANDEZ Staff Writer