The Major Dates of World Kitesurfing

Pro competitions, festivals and gatherings: the must-see events to follow in streaming or on a trip in 2026.

2026 Season

Following Kitesurfing at the Highest Level

Whether you are a competitor, a freestyle enthusiast or simply curious, the kitesurfing calendar is full of spectacular meetings. From the pro GKA circuit to festivals open to all, here is our selection of events not to be missed this season.

Competitions

2026 Major Pro Meetings

Major professional kitesurfing events, to follow via live stream or experience on site.

GKA Kite World Tour 2026

Tarifa, Dakhla, Leucate, Sylt... Pro competition / Streaming

The reference world circuit for professional kitesurfing. Several stages across Europe and Africa, combining freestyle, strapless wave riding and Big Air. All stages are broadcast live on the GKA YouTube channel.

Lord of Tram 2026

Le Barcarès, France GKA Big Air / Spectateurs welcome

The mythic French stage of the GKA Big Air circuit. The Barcarès Tramontane propels riders to dizzying heights. Crazy atmosphere on the beach, free access for spectators. A classic not to be missed if you are in the south of France.

GKA Kite-Surf Cabo Verde 2026

Sal, Cape Verde Strapless Wave Riding

The queen stage of strapless wave riding on the waves of Ponta Preta. World-class conditions, accessible from Europe in a few hours flight. Ideal for combining show and free sessions on Sal island.

Red Bull King of the Air 2026

Cape Town, South Africa Extreme Big Air / Streaming

The most spectacular event in world kitesurfing. By invitation only, the 30 best riders on the planet soar to over 20 meters in the Cape Doctor gusts. Broadcast live each year, it's a show you must follow.

Festivals

Festivals Open to All

Kites, kitesurfing and good mood: these gatherings are accessible to families and all levels.

April / May Cervia, Italy

Artevento Cervia

Italy's largest kite festival, a few hours drive from Salento. Artistic kites, kite demonstrations, workshops for children. A perfect family excursion before or after a kite trip in Puglia.

April Berck-sur-Mer, France

International Kite Festival

Ten days of aerial show on the immense Berck beach. One of the largest kite gatherings in the world, with kitesurfing and power kite demonstrations. Free entry.

June Fanø, Denmark

Fanø International Kite Flyers Meeting

On the immense beaches of Fanø island, hundreds of enthusiasts from all over the world meet every summer. Relaxed, friendly atmosphere, open to all levels.

September Rømø, Denmark

Rømø International Kite Festival

The largest kite festival in Northern Europe. Rømø beach, one of the widest in Europe, welcomes thousands of visitors for a weekend of giant kites, buggies and demonstrations.

Comparison

Which Format Suits You?

A quick overview to choose the type of event that fits you.

GKA Contest Public Festival King of the Air
FormatMulti-stage circuitSingle eventInvitation only
SpectatorsBeach + live YouTubeFree entryBeach + live stream
AtmosphereCompetitiveFamily / FestiveExtreme / Show
AccessibilityStages in EuropeAcross EuropeCape Town (Dec-Feb)
DisciplinesFreestyle, Wave, Big AirKites, kite, wingBig Air only

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ Events

How to follow GKA competitions live?
All stages are broadcast live on the GKA YouTube channel. Live dates are announced a few days before on their social networks. It's free.
Can I attend events as a spectator?
Yes, almost all these events are free access on the beach. Kite festivals (Cervia, Berck, Fanø, Rømø) are particularly suitable for families and children.
Which event do you recommend for a first kite trip?
Lord of Tram in Le Barcarès is accessible from all over France and combines a spectacular show with the possibility of riding yourself. If you visit Salento, Artevento Cervia is a few hours' drive north.
Are there kitesurfing events directly in Salento?
Salento regularly hosts stages of the Italian championship and local gatherings. Contact us to be informed of upcoming events in the region.
Is wingfoiling represented in these events?
Yes, wingfoiling has been integrated into the GKA circuit since 2023 with its own categories. Several festivals also include wing demonstrations and initiations.
How to find other kite events?
Online calendars like Kiteboarding1.eu and KiteCalendar.co.uk reference hundreds of events worldwide, updated regularly.

Want to ride in Salento between two events?

Plan My Stay