The 37th Edition of the Corralejo International Kite Festival Soars High
Las cometas de la 37ª edición del Festival Internacional de Cometas de Corralejo están iluminando los cielos de Fuerteventura like never before. This vibrant event has solidified its status as a global reference over the years. This year, over 300 kite flyers from various corners of Europe, including the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Spain, as well as international participants from Brazil and Turkey, are coming together for an exhilarating weekend. The festival kicked off with an inaugural flight on Friday, October 15, at Playa de La Concha, in El Cotillo, before heading to the spacious Grandes Playas de Corralejo over the weekend, on October 16 and 17.
A Family-Friendly Gathering
One of the highlights of the festival is the inclusive atmosphere it fosters. This Thursday, the festival welcomed visits from local senior citizen associations from La Oliva, along with students from CEIP El Toscón. The presence of the mayor and several councilors from the La Oliva City Council underscores the importance of this event within the community.
Mayor Isaí Blanco remarked, “The International Kite Festival has become a historical event for our municipality. Celebrating its 37th edition, it is a cherished date on both local and international calendars, recognized for its unique character and environmental consciousness. We are thrilled to once again host these days that will undoubtedly captivate residents and visitors alike.”
Prioritizing Sustainability
The festival’s commitment to sustainable tourism is evident through various initiatives. David Fajardo, the Tourism and Environment Councilor, emphasized the fusion of tourism and environmental stewardship. The municipality has implemented several measures to ensure a harmonious event, including:
- Free shuttle services to encourage the use of public transport.
- Environmental workshops focused on local flora and fauna.
- Protective fencing around the conservation areas within the Corralejo Natural Dunes Park.
- The presence of environmental guides throughout the event to promote ecological awareness.
These actions not only enhance the festival experience but also ensure that the natural beauty of Fuerteventura is preserved.
Festivities Ahead: Kites, Workshops, and Music
Kicking off the weekend festivities, the inaugural flight begins at 10:30 AM on Friday at Las Grandes Playas de Corralejo, where attendees can enjoy aerobatic and static kite displays daily from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The family-friendly nature of the event is further emphasized by various activities catered toward children, alongside inspiring community involvement.
As night falls, the excitement shifts to the Bahía de Corralejo, where a musical drone show will light up the evening. Scheduled for Friday and Saturday from 9:30 PM, a stunning array of 220 drones—the highest number ever used in a show in the Canary Islands—will perform synchronized movements against a backdrop of music, creating mesmerizing shapes in the night sky.
Saturday and Sunday also feature thrilling Rokaku kite battles starting at 1:30 PM. This competitive yet enjoyable activity adds a competitive spirit to the weekend festivities. Meanwhile, children can enjoy bounce houses, kite-making workshops, and Brazilian kite workshops, promoting creativity and engagement during the event.
How to Get Involved
For those interested in participating in guided tours and workshops, registration is available on the official website, corralejokitefest.com. This is a fantastic opportunity for families and individuals to dive into the world of kites while also learning about the unique environment that Fuerteventura has to offer.
Festival Support and Partnerships
Organized by the Tourism Department of La Oliva, the festival receives backing from several entities, including the Fuerteventura Island Council, the Canary Islands Government via Promotur Turismo Canarias, and the EU’s REACT EU Fund as part of the EcoTur2 program related to the Mac 2014-2020 Territorial Cooperation Project. Notable partners also include Binter, Naviera Armas, and RIU Hotels and Resorts, making this a collaborative effort that highlights the festival’s deep community roots and international significance.
Through a blend of culture, community, and creativity, the 37th Corralejo International Kite Festival promises not only to entertain but also to inspire a deeper appreciation for the environment and the art of kite flying. The skies of Fuerteventura are set to become a tapestry of colors, shapes, and joyous activity in this highly anticipated gathering.
