Giganti in Volo - International Kite Festival

Giant kites in the Salento sky

Giganti in Volo is the International Kite Festival that colors the sky over Roca Vecchia, a seaside district of Melendugno in the province of Lecce, every year. Promoted by the Municipality of Melendugno with the patronage of the Province of Lecce and the Puglia Region, the festival takes place on a vast four-hectare area overlooking the Adriatic, right in front of the famous archaeological site of Roca Vecchia, one of the most fascinating spots on the Salento coast.

A spectacle for all the senses

The absolute stars are the giant and acrobatic kites, flown by professional kite flyers from various Italian regions and several European countries. The heart of the event is the so-called "wind garden," where dozens of kites of every shape and size dance suspended above the visitors' heads, while exhibitions and small competitions take place throughout the day.

However, the festival is not just an event to watch: it is an experience to live. There are experiential workshops where adults and children can build their own kites by hand, an area dedicated to children with inflatables, games, and activities, as well as live concerts and musical moments ranging from bands to traditional Salento sounds.

Apulian flavors and craftsmanship

Ample space is reserved for local gastronomy, with stands and tastings of zero-kilometer local products: from honey to wicker baskets, from terracotta to the genuine flavors of the region. The event thus highlights the artisanal and food excellence of Salento, in a blend of spectacle, nature, and Apulian identity.

An accessible and free event

Giganti in Volo stands out for its family-friendly and inclusive spirit: the area is designed to be accessible to people with disabilities, and admission is free. Launched in 2024, the festival has quickly become a highly anticipated end-of-summer appointment in Salento, attracting tens of thousands of residents and tourists to Roca Vecchia, all united by the simple and universal spectacle of kites flying over the sea.