KOGL Test Fest 2026

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.