06/05/2026
We invite you to join us and fly a kite at the 44th Annual Rogallo Kite Festival to celebrate Francis Rogallo and his many accomplishment.
Francis Rogallo was a NASA scientist and inventor of the flexible wing. His inventions started the sport of hang-gliding and his designs have carried over into the development of stunt kites, power kites, and hang gliders that are flown today.
Kitty Hawk Kites is excited to announce the return of the annual Rogallo Kite Festival, a two-day celebration honoring aviation pioneer Francis Rogallo and the enduring spirit of free flight on the Outer Banks.
The festival will take place at Jockey’s Ridge State Park on Friday, June 12th to Saturday, June 13th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. each day. This family-friendly event will feature giant show kites, free stunt and power kite lessons, educational presentations, hands-on activities, and live flying demonstrations designed for guests of all ages.
The Rogallo Kite Festival celebrates the legacy of Francis and Gertrude Rogallo, whose revolutionary flexible-wing designs helped shape the future of hang gliding, paragliding, modern kites, and recreational flight around the world. Francis Rogallo, a NASA engineer, developed the flexible wing that became the foundation for many forms of modern recreational aviation. The Outer Banks remains one of the most important locations in aviation history, making Jockey’s Ridge State Park the perfect backdrop for this unique festival.
Festival attendees can enjoy:
● Massive 30- to 100-foot display kites soaring above the dunes
● FREE stunt and power kite lessons
● Interactive children's activities and crafts
● Aviation history presentations and educational exhibits
● Kite-flying demonstrations from experienced pilots and performers
● Community flying opportunities for guests and families
“This festival is about celebrating creativity, innovation, and the joy of flight,” said representatives from Kitty Hawk Kites. “We love bringing families together to experience the excitement of giant kites, hands-on activities, and the incredible aviation history that makes the Outer Banks so special.”
Admission to the Rogallo Kite Festival is free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to bring their own kites and enjoy a memorable weekend on the dunes. Parking is available at Jockey’s Ridge State Park and surrounding public parking areas.
Early arrival is recommended. For event schedules, updates, and additional information, visit:
Upcoming Outer Banks Events and Festivals. Kitty Hawk Kites offers tons of events and activities for your OBX vacation. Check out what is happening!