Description
King of the Great Lakes 2026
September 25–27 | Now at City Beach, Grand Haven, MI
Three days. The best gear on the market. The MACkite Crew. And a beach that was built for exactly this.
King of the Great Lakes is MACkite's annual demo event, ideal for experienced kiters, wingers, and foilers.
After years of doing this, we'll say it plainly: there's nothing else like it in the Midwest. KoGL brings together the best kiteboarding and foiling brands, team riders, and a community of people who genuinely love being on the water. It's part gear fest, part block party, part annual reunion.
Whether you're an experienced rider who wants hands-on time with $125,000+ worth of the latest gear, or someone who's kite or foil-curious and wants to see what all the fuss is about — there's a spot for you at Grand Haven City Beach this September.
"You know what? This event is so great. All the brands are here. I guess we're supposed to be like arch-rivals competing against each other, but we're all a bunch of buddies that get together at this event, and it's super low-key. Your staff's amazing and you make it super easy. You meet us here in the morning and help us unload our stuff and put our tents up, and it's all really easy. We're all a bunch of friends and maybe we share a couple beers in the afternoon together, so it's a really fun event to work at. Then we always meet your local riders — a really good bunch of people. The actual venue is pretty epic too. We're all rigged up right here on the beach right next to the water. It typically gets pretty good conditions this time of year, so it's a lot of fun." ~ Matt Aiken, North Brand Representative
What Makes KoGL Different
The water is right there. No shuttles, no staging areas. You rig up, walk ten feet, and you're in. Grand Haven City Beach is one of the best kiteboarding venues in the state, and we've called it home for years.
The brands actually show up. Not just with banners and catalogs. Experience full demo fleets and chat with their team riders. This is your chance to ride gear you can't get your hands on anywhere else. **Gear demo is not designed for beginners or new riders — brands and staff are subject to rider approval, and you can be denied gear.
The Weekend at a Glance
Friday, September 25
- Noon: Registration opens
- 1–5:30(ish) p.m.: Gear demo (extended if conditions allow)
- 6:30pm: KoGL Kickoff at MACkite Warehouse
Saturday, September 26
- 10:00 a.m.: Registration opens
- 10:30 a.m.–6 p.m.: Gear demo (extended if conditions allow)
- 2:00 p.m.: Cornhole with Cado — a KoGL tradition. Sign up at the event. Prizes TBA.
- 7:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.: KoGL Saturday at Odd Side Ales (sponsored by North)
Sunday, September 27
- 10:00 a.m.: Registration opens
- 11:00 a.m.: Freeride / demo
- 5:00 p.m.: Event wrap-up
Schedule subject to wind and conditions. Some events may be adjusted. Demos are limited to registered riders with previous ability and are subject to staff or brand approval.
Get Your Ticket
Early registration saves you money and guarantees your t-shirt and swag. Last-minute and day-of sign-ups are welcome, but we can't promise anything will be left in your size.
| Spectator | Beach & Event Tee Pass | Rider Demo Pass | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $35 early / $45 after Sept. 10 | $45 / $55 after Sept. 10 |
| What's Included |
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Important
- Rider privilege is subject to staff/brand approval and require demonstrated previous riding ability.
- A completed waiver is required, regardless of ability. You can complete your waiver early and get on the water faster through our online registration.
- Tickets are non-refundable due to no wind. If you plan on not attending, we can ship your t-shirt to you.
Good to Know
What should I bring? Spectators: water, snacks, sunscreen, and an open mind. Riders: wetsuit recommended — Lake Michigan in late September has feelings.
What if there's no wind? KoGL is a sun/rain/wind/no wind event and run all weekend regardless. We'll have eFoils, a wake boat, and plenty of opportunities to come together as a community. Even if there's no wind, we can still have fun!
Is this a competition? Not really. KoGL is a demo event first — the emphasis is on getting time on gear, learning, and having a great weekend.
Demo Gear
Brand and gear list coming soon. Follow the KoGL Facebook event for updates as brands are confirmed.
33 Reviews
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Fun Event
Lots of equipment on hand, but with no wind it was disappointing to no be able to try any of it. I left on Saturday since there was no wind. It would be nice to get some of the entry fee applied to a purchase from MacKite.
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Test Fest
First time going since this is also my first year learning this sport. Thought it was very nice but would like to see a posted Schedule of seminars, etc.... didn't know what was going on and when
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:ok_hand:
:ok_hand:
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KOGL
Great turnout of kite companies with tons of gear to test including foil boards and use of boats and jet skis. Great hosts and fun events.
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Great event! Just wish we would have had wind!
The is a great event for getting together with other kiteboarders and sharing the stoke for the sport! A few suggestions: When it is as hot as it was this year at the after parties, add a couple of fans under the tents. Instead of having one big keg of craft beer, have 2 small kegs, one craft and the other a basic pilsner like the number one selling beer, Bud light. Not everyone likes craft beers. Having boats and jet skis pull foil boarders was a great idea, especially since there was no wind. Thanks for hosting this event every year! I love it! :-)
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Good times with good people
Had a great time. Thanks again for putting on KOGL.
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Expert advice
Nice to know any Kiteboard student I refer are treatied with knowledgable and helpful personal like Nathan Douglas Victor PASA instructor
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KOGL Test Fest 2016
Easy transaction through the website. Unfortunately, I didn't make the trip due to the wind forecast.
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Loved it had a great
Loved it had a great time! I can't wait for next year!