The 38th edition of the Rencontres Internationales des Cerfs-volants in Berck is set to conclude this weekend, with a vibrant celebration of Colombian kite-flying culture. This year's festival has drawn attention not only for its stunning displays but also for the rich traditions behind the art of kite flying, particularly from Colombia, a nation renowned for its colorful and artistic kites.
On April 19, 2025, the festivities will culminate with a spectacular fireworks display scheduled for around 10:30 PM, pending favorable weather conditions. According to Météo France, the evening is expected to feature veiled skies with temperatures around 14°C and winds of 30 km/h, setting the stage for a memorable night.
Before the fireworks, attendees can enjoy various musical performances along the Berck esplanade from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM. These performances will create an atmosphere of celebration as the festival wraps up its week-long activities.
Throughout the day, kite demonstrations will continue, highlighting the skills of a delegation of 16 Colombian kite flyers who have been performing daily. This group has captivated audiences with their traditional kites, which are often hexagonal or geometric in shape and feature long tails. One of the standout performers is Jovany Chiguachi, who pilots a kite with an impressive 18-meter tail, inspired by the works of Colombian artist Omar Rayo. "The traditional Colombian kite has a hexagonal or multi-sided shape, and its main characteristic is the long tail," Chiguachi explained, sharing his pride in showcasing this aspect of Colombian culture at one of the world's most significant kite festivals.
In Colombia, the craft of kite making begins in childhood, using everyday materials like supermarket bags and bamboo. Chiguachi noted that the goal is to fly these kites as high as possible, sometimes reaching altitudes of up to 3,000 meters. This contrasts with the festival's more artistic focus in Berck, where the kites are not only flown but also choreographed to music, creating a visual spectacle.
As spectators gather on the sandy beaches of Berck, they are treated to a dazzling display of colors as Colombian kites fill the sky, painting it in shades of yellow, blue, and red. The festival has drawn approximately 450 kite flyers from 29 countries, and it is expected to attract between 800,000 to 1 million visitors over its duration.
Among the performers is Eddy, a 75-year-old kite flyer from Biella, Italy, who has made a name for himself with his 4-line kite performances. Eddy, who began flying kites after being gifted one by a windsurfing sponsor, founded the Free Vola kite club in the 1980s. He expresses a deep connection between music and kite flying, stating, "When music is present, the kites are no longer just kites; they become dancers, souls that come to life in the sky. The audience feels it and vibrates with us." His passion for the craft shines through as he shares the joy of participating in the Berck festival, noting it has a unique charm compared to other festivals he has attended.
During a recent demonstration, Eddy's precision flying captivated onlookers, showcasing the harmony between the kites and the rhythm of the music. He humorously remarked, "It's like making love to the sky," highlighting the emotional connection he feels when performing. This year marks his fourth time at the Berck festival, and he continues to be inspired by the energy and beauty of the event.
As the festival progresses, the Colombian pavilion remains open to the public, allowing visitors to experience a slice of Colombian culture through photographs, coffee, and colorful paper decorations that recreate a street in Cartagena. Roger Tessa-Gambassi, the festival's artistic director, emphasizes Colombia's prominent role in the kite-flying community, stating, "Of all the countries in Latin America, Colombia is the most devoted to kite flying."
In addition to the Colombian delegation, various kite demonstrations are scheduled throughout the day, culminating in the evening's fireworks. The festival has become a focal point for kite enthusiasts and families alike, who come together to celebrate this unique art form.
As the day winds down, the excitement builds for the grand finale. The combination of vibrant kites, artistic performances, and the communal atmosphere contributes to the festival's reputation as one of the most significant kite-flying events in the world.
For those in attendance, the Rencontres Internationales des Cerfs-volants offers more than just a visual spectacle; it fosters a sense of community and appreciation for the cultural significance of kites. The event not only showcases the artistry and skill of kite flyers but also serves as a reminder of the joy and creativity that can be found in such simple pleasures.
As the festival comes to a close, attendees leave with memories of colorful kites dancing in the sky, the sound of music mingling with laughter, and the anticipation of next year's event. The Rencontres Internationales des Cerfs-volants continues to be a celebration of culture, creativity, and community, solidifying its place in the hearts of kite enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
