In the heart of Melendugno, just steps from the Adriatic coast, the buzz of anticipation fills the air as families, friends, and solo travelers gather to learn an ancient craft. These free workshops, led by master kite-makers from Gubbio's renowned Eolo Club, offer a rare chance to build your own aquilone by hand, transforming simple materials into vibrant, wind-dancing art. It's a warm-up to the spectacular third edition of Giganti in volo, the international kite festival that will soon fill the skies with color.
Hands-On Magic With Master Craftsmen
The Eolo Club experts bring decades of kite-making tradition from the hills of Umbria to this coastal town. Under their guidance, participants of all ages learn to cut, assemble, and balance kites that will actually fly. The atmosphere is relaxed and collaborative, with children giggling over glue sticks and adults rediscovering the satisfaction of working with their hands.
No prior experience is needed — the instructors walk you through every step, from choosing the right frame materials to attaching the tail that keeps your creation stable in the sea breeze. By the end of the session, you'll leave with a kite you built yourself and the confidence to launch it into the Puglian sky.
A Prelude to Festival Spectacle
These workshops aren't just craft sessions — they're part of a larger celebration that transforms Melendugno into a canvas of aerial art. The Giganti in volo festival draws kite enthusiasts from around the world, showcasing massive, intricate designs that hover and dance above the landscape. Attending a workshop gives you insider access to the techniques and stories behind those giants, making the festival itself even more meaningful.
The energy in the room is infectious, as participants swap tips and imagine their kites joining the festival parade. It's a community gathering that bridges generations and nationalities, all united by the simple joy of flight.
What to Bring and Where to Wander After
Dress comfortably — you'll be sitting at tables, working with paper, bamboo, and string. Bring your curiosity and maybe a camera to document your creation. After the workshop, Melendugno's historic center is a short stroll away, with its quiet piazzas and family-run pasticcerie serving flaky pasticciotti.
If you're staying in the area, consider combining the workshop with a visit to the nearby beaches of Torre dell'Orso or San Foca, where the Adriatic's turquoise waters offer the perfect backdrop for testing your new kite. The drive takes just minutes, and the sea breeze is ideal for first flights.
- Learn traditional kite-making from Gubbio's master craftsmen in a hands-on, friendly environment
- Build your own flying kite to take home or launch at the beach
- Connect with locals and travelers in a creative, multi-generational setting
- Gain insider knowledge before the spectacular Giganti in volo festival fills the sky
- Explore Melendugno's old town and nearby Adriatic beaches after your session