38th International Kite Festival in Corralejo: A Celebration of Color and Creativity
The picturesque town of Corralejo, located in Fuerteventura, recently kicked off the 38th International Kite Festival, a vibrant event that celebrates creativity and the joyful spirit of skyward art. Roused by the winds of November, this year’s festival launched on November 10th and will run until November 16th, capturing the attention of visitors and locals alike.
The Inaugural Flight
The festival commenced with a captivating inaugural flight held in the stunning surroundings of the Parque Natural de las Dunas. This year, two giant kites stole the spotlight—a magnificent squirrel-shaped kite and an impressive dolphin installation. The event’s opening was not only a visual feast but also a moment of community spirit, highlighted by the presence of local authorities including the Mayor of La Oliva, Isaí Blanco, and other noteworthy figures like David Fajardo, the Councillor of Tourism and Environment, and Dolores García, the President of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura.
A Gathering of Kiting Passion
According to the Ayuntamiento de La Oliva, the skies above Corralejo and El Cotillo are now dotted with thousands of kites, a sight that brings together over 200 kite flyers from various countries. This vibrant assembly serves not just as a competition but as a platform for cultural exchange and the celebration of a unique artistic medium. Children from local schools played an active role in the opening ceremonies, participating in educational activities and kite-flying workshops that engage the younger generation and instill a love for this colorful tradition.
Program Highlights
The festival’s program boasts an array of thrilling activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Attendees can enjoy static and acrobatic kite displays, thrilling kite fights, and hands-on workshops catering to all skill levels. One of the standout attractions is a giant inflatable park over six meters high, making it a hit with families. Additionally, visitors can look forward to exciting nighttime spectacles featuring drone shows paired with music, set against the backdrop of Corralejo Bay.
Drone Light Spectacle
Among the festival’s new features, the drone light shows are set to take the event to the next level. Organized by UMILES, these captivating aerial displays will showcase a total of 600 synchronized drones illuminating the night sky over Corralejo. Scheduled for November 14th and 15th, these shows will artfully narrate themes of flight, sustainability, and our connection to nature through stunning three-dimensional formations. As Ernesto Albacete, the commercial director of the company, notes, these shows are designed to thrill audiences of all ages.
Community and Collaboration
The festival is a joint effort by the Town Council of La Oliva and the Tourism Department of the Cabildo of Fuerteventura, with backing from the Gobierno de Canarias and partners like Binter and RIU Hotels & Resorts. This collaboration underscores the importance of community ties in pulling off such a large-scale event and provides an opportunity for local businesses to engage with visitors—showcasing what Fuerteventura has to offer.
Key Moments on the Schedule
- Drone Shows: November 14th and 15th at 21:30, with 300 drones each evening.
- Kite Activities: Acrobatic and static exhibitions, competing kites, a circuit for FPV drones, a science day, and concerts, including a tribute to Coldplay.
- Closing Ceremony: The festival culminates in a celebration at 16:00 on November 16th in Corralejo Bay.
A Kaleidoscope of Experiences
The 38th International Kite Festival is not just an event; it’s a celebration of culture, community, and creativity. With every kite that paints the sky, visitors are invited to experience Fuerteventura in a new light, filled with color, music, and the spirit of togetherness. As the festival unfolds, each day brings with it the promise of new memories, laughter, and a sense of belonging that is truly special.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this festival serves as a reminder of the fun that awaits when creativity takes flight.
