The Festival International de Cerfs-Volants de Berck-sur, or the International Kite Festival, is a yearly event that transforms the beach of Berck-sur-Mer, France into a vibrant spectacle of wind and color. This festival features the world’s best kite-makers, with nearly 700,000 spectators taking in their creations.
Every two years, the festival also hosts the World’s International Kite Championships, where experts from around the globe compete against the wind and each other.
When is the International de Cerfs-Volants de Berck-sur?
This Kite Festival takes place every year. The exact dates vary each year, but it typically takes place in April, marking the arrival of spring with a sky full of colorful kites.
How Did the International de Cerfs-Volants de Berck-Sur Start?
The town of Berck-sur-Mer has loved kites for a very long time! In the year 1887, long before we had cool airplanes, some smart people used kites to take pictures from the sky. This started a special tradition. Then, in 1987, a group of kite lovers from Belgium decided to mark the 100th anniversary of this event with the first official Kite Festival.
The festival became very popular quickly (pun intended!), and it’s now a yearly event that people from all over the world love to attend.”
Why Do We Celebrate the International de Cerfs-Volants de Berck-Sur?
There are many reasons why this festival is so special! It’s more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the pure joy of seeing colorful creations dance on the breeze. It’s a chance to witness incredible artistry, be amazed by feats of human skill, and simply enjoy the feeling of a cool spring breeze carrying a beautiful kite high in the sky.
What is the Purpose of the International de Cerfs-Volants de Berck-Sur?
The festival has a few key goals:
- To celebrate kites! It’s a way to showcase the amazing artistry and skill that goes into making and flying kites.
- To bring people together! The festival attracts people from all over the world, creating a space for cultural exchange and shared enjoyment.
- To keep the tradition alive! The festival helps to ensure that the unique history of kite flying in Berck-sur-Mer continues to be celebrated for generations to come.
How Do You Celebrate the International de Cerfs-Volants de Berck-Sur?
There are so many ways to join the fun! Here are a few ideas:
- Witness the spectacle! The main event is simply watching the incredible kites on display. From giant cartoon characters to intricate geometric designs, there’s something to amaze everyone.
- Cheer on the champions! Every two years, the festival hosts the World’s International Kite Championships. Watching these skilled flyers perform incredible maneuvers with their kites is truly awe-inspiring.
- Learn the art! Many festivals offer workshops where you can learn how to make your own kite. It’s a fun and rewarding activity for all ages!
- Fly your own! Pack your favorite kite (or buy one at the festival) and join the fun of flying your own creation on the beach alongside the amazing displays.
- Soak up the atmosphere! The festival is a lively event with food stalls offering delicious treats, live music, and family-friendly activities. It’s a great way to experience French culture and create lasting memories.
Ideas and Simple Ways to Celebrate at Home (Even if You Can’t Make it to France!)
Can’t make it all the way to France for the festival? No worries! You can still celebrate the joy of kites at home with some simple ideas:
- Have a kite-making party! Gather your friends and family and get creative making your own kites using paper, string, and sticks.
- Host a mini kite-flying competition! Head to your local park on a windy day and have a friendly competition with your neighbors to see whose kite flies the highest or performs the best tricks.
- Learn about the history of kites! Did you know that kites have been around for thousands of years?
International de Cerfs-Volants de Berck-Sur Quotes
- “The De Cerfs-Volants de Berck-Sur-Mer is a celebration of imagination taking flight.” – Local Artist, Isabelle Dubois
- “There’s something truly special about seeing a giant octopus kite dancing in the sky. It reminds you that anything is possible.” – Festival Visitor, Sarah Jones
- “The laughter of children flying their kites at the festival is the most beautiful sound in the world.” – Volunteer, Pierre Dupont
International de Cerfs-Volants de Berck-Sur Activities
In addition to watching the kites, there are many other activities to enjoy at the festival. It offers a variety of activities to keep everyone entertained:
- Food Stalls: Indulge in delicious French treats like crêpes, baguettes, and local cheeses.
- Live Music: Enjoy the festive atmosphere with live music performances throughout the day.
- Children’s Activities: From face painting to sandcastle building contests, there’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained.
- Art Exhibitions: Admire the work of local artists who showcase their kite-inspired creations.
- Night-time Activities: As the sun sets, the festival takes on a magical new life with illuminated kites dancing in the night sky.
Whether you’ve flown kites for years or you’re just starting to get interested, this festival has something for everyone. So, bring your excitement, take a kite (or plan to make one!), and get ready for a truly special celebration of flying, creativity, and togetherness.
