Kitesurfing & Watersports Events 2017
Summer is here, and kitesurfing and watersports enthusiasts are already making plans for annual gatherings all over the world.
There are some amazing contests and clinics being held in stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters around the World.
If you’ve only just heard of some of these…you’re missing out!
Kitesurfing Armada
Hayling Island – UK (June 9–11 2017)
The Virgin Kitesurfing Armada marks the beginning of summer for the kitesurfing community.
Held on beautiful Hayling Island, it is renowned for its live concerts and record breaking! Not just in kitesurfing, but also in charity fundraising.
To date, they have broken 5 Guinness World Records and raised over £160,000 for charity!
Celebrating its 5th year, this year’s festival is rumoured to be the biggest and best of all.
A fundraiser for people in need; entrance, and participation is free. Donations are gathered from anyone wishing to help.
Kitesurfers will be in their element, with live music, famous DJ’s, a kite spa/health zone (featuring 2 hot tubs, sports massage options, and health/ wellbeing advice), all sorts of parties, and a family zone. ensure there is plenty of action for all ages.
There really is something for everyone!
Gold Coast Ocean Fest
The Surf & Music Festival
Croyde – UK (June 16–18 2017)
Known more as a family-friendly event, the Gold Coast Ocean Fest is actually far more energetic.
Held in Croyde, on the beautiful coast of North Devon, the fest features all sorts of action sports and beach activities – supplemented by the exquisite local cuisine and a great lineup of bands!
While not exclusively a kitesurfing event, kitesurfers flood in to enjoy their favourite sport among several other activities, such as skating, surfing, beach volleyball, as well as a series of Ironman & Diamond Lady events and the famed “Nipper” Challenge for promising youngsters.
Hooked, Workum
Netherlands (June 17–18 2017)
Time to cross the channel… for a beach festival all about getting people ‘hooked’ on watersports.
Workum and its beautiful beach invite kitesurfers and water sports buffs to enjoy a relaxed weekend with friends and family.
A bit more family-oriented than other festivals, Hooked hosts numerous activities for kids and inexperienced surfers.
Seasoned kitesurfers will not be disappointed by the array of action sports, parties and events arranged throughout the weekend.
Surfana Festival
Bloemendaal aan Zee, Camping de Laakens, Netherlands (June 22–25 2017)
Get set for a 4-day adventure in the Dutch dunes!
The Surfana festival is an amalgam of action sports, delicious food, live music, clinics, and workshops.
It’s an ideal option for kitesurfers who love big parties and combine their surfing with all sorts of watersports.
Sea Sessions Surf Music Festival
Bundoran Beach, Donegal, Ireland (June 23–25 2017)
Situated right on the beach in Bundoran, the Sea Sessions festival has played host to international acts such as Tinie Tempah, Paul Weller, Bastille and Seasick Steve.
Now heading into its tenth year, alongside music, it’s Ireland’s biggest Surf Event, with skating, BMX, beach sports and more packed into the 3 full days by the beach.
Surf & Skate Festival
Germany
- Hamburg, June 15–18 2017
- Cologne, July 21–24 2017
- Munich, August 11–13 2017
Probably Europe’s largest boardsports event, the Surf & Skate Fest is the only festival in our list which travels along several sites.
With workshops, skateparks, contests and lots more besides, there’s lots to keep visitors entertained.
Excellently organised, the event brings life and vibe to those that love kitesurfing but live in-land.
The event does go to show that river riding can be equally exciting!
Boardmasters Festival
Cornwall – UK (August 9–13 2017)
Cornwall’s biggest festival is to be held at Watergate Bay and Fistral.
Again not exclusively for the kitesurfing community, but still the Boardmasters Festival is a must for anyone interested in action and water sports.
The event is a combination of live music, surfing and skateboarding competitions in and around Newquay.
The Watergate Bay site hosts the music arena and all festival camping. Live music performances run from Thursday to Sunday across seven music stages.
Some in fantastic beachfront locations:
Past years have seen acts such Faithless, Snoop Dogg, Chase and Status, Basement Jaxx and Ed Sheeran.
And this year’s lineup looks well worth a visit too…
This summer will also see an appearance from award-winning actor Idris Elba. Although he may be better known for his on-screen roles, Elba is also an up-and-coming musician who has previously performed at Glastonbury.
Kitesurf World Cup
Fehmarn, Germany (August 18–27 2017)
Some may say we’ve left the best to last!
Fehmarn in Germany hosts this year’s final stop of the Kitesurf World Cup.
Don’t miss the chance to experience the World’s most famous and skilled kitesurfers in action; freestyle, slalom, and foiling.
Don’t forget the 10 days of partying, making this one of the most prestigious kitesurfing event of this (or any) summer.
Don’t Miss Out!!
Lots of these events happen in JUNE, so if you haven’t made any plans yet you had better hurry up!
Accommodation in the hosting sites are busy during these events and chances to find a decent place to stay are narrowing.
There are some fantastic watersports events to enjoy and whilst the sun is up, let’s make the most of it!
We hope to see you there…