The skies above the stunning natural landscape of the Dunas de Corralejo have come alive with a vibrant spectacle as the 38th International Kite Festival of Corralejo kicked off today. The inaugural flight featured an impressive, giant squirrel kite and playful dolphin kites, highlighting the festival’s commitment to sustainability and ocean conservation. This beloved event continues to flourish, attracting more color and participation each year.
The opening ceremony was graced by local dignitaries, including Isaí Blanco, the Mayor of La Oliva, alongside David Fajardo, the Councilor for Tourism and Environment. Other notable attendees included Dolores García, President of the Fuerteventura Cabildo, and Marlene Figueroa, the Cabildo’s Tourism Advisor, adding to the festivity’s significance. They were joined by Raúl Rivero, the festival director, who has tirelessly worked to elevate this event’s profile.
Hundreds of schoolchildren from La Oliva’s early childhood and primary schools participated eagerly in the festivities, flying their own small kites along the beach. The weekend promises a feast of activities, including both static and acrobatic kite displays, kite fighting tournaments, workshops, contests, and a new addition this year—a park featuring giant inflatable characters over 6 meters tall, bringing iconic figures like Spiderman, Batman, and King Kong to life!
Mayor Isaí Blanco expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We are undoubtedly talking about the best kite festival in the world. We have attracted the top kite fliers from all over Europe, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of our sea, our white sands, and this blue sky scattered with thousands of kites—even in the winter.”
Councilor David Fajardo emphasized the dual focus of the festival, saying, “This is exactly what our municipality and island offer: the synergy of tourism and the environment. It is an appealing and completely sustainable activity set in an exceptional natural landscape, perfect for the entire family.”
Echoing this sentiment, Dolores García, the President of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura, remarked on the unique experience the festival offers, enhancing appreciation for the natural surroundings while promoting environmental consciousness. “Congratulations to the La Oliva City Council for their great efforts in raising environmental awareness among both visitors and residents,” she said.
Marlene Figueroa, the Tourism Councillor, noted the festival’s all-encompassing appeal, stating it is a remarkable attraction for families, providing entertainment for locals and tourists alike. The festival’s programming is as diverse as the kites themselves, ensuring everyone finds something enjoyable.
The day was marked by pleasantly warm temperatures typical of November, drawing beachgoers who relished the beautiful weather while intrigued spectators watched the array of colors and movements as kites flew gracefully through the Corralejo skies—a delightful dance of creativity and artistry.
The festival is set to continue with an array of nighttime activities, including a world premiere drone show titled “Abstract Horizon” that will dazzle attendees with a captivating display of lights and colors synchronized to music, scheduled for Friday and Saturday evenings. Additionally, the event features a Coldplay Tribute concert and a performance by Salvapantallas, which celebrates 25 years of music. The festival will conclude on Sunday at 4:00 PM.
