Steve Boote didn’t necessarily see a nonprofit in his future when an impulsive purchase of 12 massive Inflatable Show Kites set everything in motion. What started as a spontaneous, headfirst leap into an entirely new world became #BojiKites — a beloved annual winter kite festival held each January just off the State Pier in Arnolds Park. From that first exhilarating flight at the 2019 University of Okoboji Winter Games, the event has grown into a cherished community tradition, drawing world-class kite flyers from across the globe, boat-towed warm-weather flying, and a heartfelt commitment to giving back to Historic Arnolds Park Amusement Park — a place with a special hold on Steve’s heart. Come learn the colorful origin story behind the festival, how a nonprofit kite festival lifts up its community, and what exciting additions are planned for the future of #BojiKites.
Thank You to Okoboji Magazine for organizing the 2026 Speaker Series.