Houlgate Full Wind FestivalHoulgate Plein Vent
Houlgate, Norman coastal community (Houlgate), France
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🎟 Free entry
FestivalAtlas
Houlgate Plein Vent is an annual kite and wind sports festival held each spring on the beach of Houlgate (Calvados). Over one weekend, thousands of colorful kites fill the sky in a family-friendly celebration of wind and sea. The festival features kite-making workshops, acrobatic kite demonstrations, paragliding initiation, and seaside games. It offers an authentic local seaside tradition that appeals to families and kite enthusiasts.
Houlgate’s exposed beach in the Pays d'Auge is ideal for wind sports. The festival has become a feature of regional culture, combining Normandy’s maritime heritage with international kite flying culture. The Belle Époque resort town provides a scenic backdrop reflecting the region’s leisure spirit.
Venues and routes
Plage d'Houlgate · Houlgate
The dates that shape the visit.
Opening day · Sat, May 8
Welcoming demonstration flights and opening remarks kick off the festival
Arrive early for a good view of the opening ceremony and avoid crowds
High-flying acrobatic kite performances by experienced pilots
Gather near the demonstration zone by 13:45 for best viewing
Final coordinated kite flight signaling the end of the festival
Stay until the end for the grand finale; find a spot on the sand well ahead of time
Reference notes for once this becomes a real plan.
Practical notes refreshed Feb 7.
Moderate crowds · Lively energy
Spacious beach allows room to spread out; busiest near main stage
Family-friendly event with local volunteer teams and police patrols
Be prepared for wind, sun and possible light rain · Event continues in light rain
Daily budget: €50-80 · Drinks: €2-5
Bring reusable water bottle and snacks; share transport; pre-book lodging
From center: 5-minute walk from Houlgate town center · Promenade provides wheelchair access to events