The 37th International Kite Festival: A Colorful Celebration in Corralejo
The picturesque beaches of Corralejo were transformed into a vibrant spectacle as the 37th International Kite Festival unfolded, captivating locals and tourists alike. Among the striking displays was a colossal 30-meter lizard kite, the pride of Liana from Genoa, who struggled to manage its strings against the strong winds. This majestic kite drew the attention of many, as did another notable creation: a 15-meter by 7-meter fish kite crafted by Salvatore from Turin.
A Day of Dazzling Displays
The festival, held against the backdrop of Fuerteventura’s sunny skies and gentle temperatures, saw nearly 500 kites take to the air. With perfect wind conditions, the event allowed participants to showcase their grandest creations. Approximately 300 kite enthusiasts from far and wide—Brazil, Turkey, Sweden, England, and Germany—turned the skies of Fuerteventura into a canvas of color and motion.
Dave and Claire, kite fliers who have participated in the festival for three consecutive years, expressed their love for Corralejo, remarking, “We adore this place.” Their travels with kites have taken them to locales across the U.S., India, and Italy, further confirming the festival’s appeal on a global stage.
Support from Local Authorities
Notably, Jéssica de León, the Canarian Minister of Tourism and Employment, made a visit to the festival, highlighting its importance to the region. She praised the event for showcasing Fuerteventura’s scenic beaches and pleasant climate, a rarity in Europe in mid-November. Her words underscored the festival’s role in drawing attention to the island, noting that the imagery and vibrancy of the event attract media coverage worldwide.
Synchronization and Competitions
One of the standout features of the festival was the synchronized flying of up to 19 kites, which thrilled spectators as they danced through the sky without entangling their strings. Additionally, the event featured Rokaku battles—lightweight kites engaging in friendly combat to see which could remain airborne the longest. These competitions added an exciting competitive edge to the festivities, entertaining fans of all ages.
Workshops and Family Activities
Families flocked to the sand not just to watch but to partake in environmental workshops and kite-making sessions. These activities provided a hands-on experience, allowing younger attendees to try their hand at creating their own kites, culminating in the perfect family outing under the sun. The festival promised to conclude on a high note with its final day on Sunday, November 17.
Organizational Support
The festival is orchestrated by the Tourism Department of La Oliva, supported by various local governmental bodies and organizations. With backing from the Cabildo de Fuerteventura and Promotur Turismo Canarias, the festival is reinforced by broader regional initiatives such as the European EcoTur2 program and REACT EU funds. Collaborating partners like Binter and RIU Hotels and Resorts also contribute to making this spectacle possible.
Drones Light Up the Night
The festival kicked off with a spectacular inaugural flight featuring an impressive 18-square-meter panda-shaped kite that mesmerized attendees with its grand scale. With over 300 kite fliers from around the globe, nearly a thousand kites filled the sky, creating an enchanting atmosphere for students and visitors alike to enjoy a beach day in summer-like warmth.
As night fell, an innovative drone show featuring 220 synchronized drones entertained crowds, highlighting a fresh addition to the festival’s repertoire. This remarkable visual display served as a fitting capstone to a day rich in color, creativity, and communal joy.
Final Thoughts
The 37th International Kite Festival is not just a remarkable gathering of kite enthusiasts but also a celebration of culture, creativity, and community spirit. It’s an event that bridges generations, bringing families together and showcasing the beauty of Fuerteventura—all while providing a canvas for artistic expression high above the sandy shores.
