For more than two decades, one of Antigua and Barbuda’s most beloved Easter celebrations has brought communities together across generations, and this year the coastal tradition reaches a meaningful milestone. The annual Easter Monday kite-flying gathering at Devil’s Bridge, a signature cultural event that has become woven into the nation’s holiday identity, is celebrating its 21st anniversary in 2024.
Held from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. along the country’s scenic eastern coastline, the event turns the open sky above Devil’s Bridge into a moving canvas of color. Every kite that takes flight is handcrafted by local participants, each bearing unique designs that reflect the creativity and artistry of Antigua and Barbuda’s people. What started as a casual, informal pastime for local residents has gradually grown into a cornerstone of the country’s Easter observances, drawing thousands of locals and visitors alike each year.
Unlike large-scale commercial festivals, this gathering centers on connection and shared heritage. Multi-generational families travel to the coastline to take part: grandparents pass down kite-building techniques to younger children, friends reconnect over the holiday, and attendees bond over their shared love of this distinctly Antiguan and Barbudan tradition. Organizers note that the 21-year milestone stands as a testament to the event’s lasting, enduring appeal. Far from fading with time, the kite-flying day continues to grow in popularity, remaining one of the most anticipated highlights of the national Easter calendar, balancing lighthearted family fun with a deep, abiding sense of cultural heritage.