Good Friday brings the popular Bermuda Kite Festival to Horseshoe Bay, an Easter weekend spectacle not to be missed. Organized by the Opposition United Bermuda Party, the event, held noon–3 p.m., is nonetheless a nonpartisan affair, drawing hundreds from all over the island for a colorful showdown of kites both store-bought and homemade in traditional island styles. Kite-flying is practically an art form in Bermuda, where traditionalists turn tissue paper and sticks into kaleidoscopic flying contraptions, complete with tails and “hummers.” Islanders come to check out the best designs (judged in various categories), fly their own kites, enjoy kids’ games and music, and share Easter picnics of sticky hot-cross buns and codfish cakes. Kite-making demonstrations are often the highlight. For information, call the UBP office at tel. 441/295-4597.

Horseshoe Bay is also the site for the annual Bermuda International Sand Sculpture Competition, run by the Tourism Department. The creative contest is fun for both entrants and spectators, with five categories open to children, adults, families, teens, and tourists. Held over four days in late August, the competition also brings in the talents of professional American sand sculptors Team Sandtastic (www.teamsandtastic.com) whose incredible creations wow the crowds of spectators. For dates and details, see www.bermudatourism.com.