Rømø Dragefestival
Northern Europe's largest kite festival where hundreds of colorful creations dance across the September sky.
A Celebration of Wind and Sky
Every first weekend in September, Rømø transforms into a vibrant gathering place for kite enthusiasts and curious visitors from across Northern Europe. The Rømø Dragefestival, held on the expansive Lakolk Strand, has become one of the continent's most impressive aerial festivals, drawing thousands of spectators who come to witness the extraordinary sight of countless kites dancing across the sky. The festival officially runs from Friday through Sunday, filling three days with activities that celebrate the art, skill, and creativity of kite flying.The Perfect Canvas for Flight
Lakolk Strand provides exceptional natural conditions for kite flying, with its wide, flat sandy beach and reliable westerly winds that allow kites to soar high into the air. These ideal meteorological and geographical features have made the location the festival's home for decades, attracting serious kite flyers who bring their latest creations—ranging from traditional single-line designs to elaborate artistic constructions in diverse shapes, sizes, and colors. The beach's openness ensures that both flyers and spectators have unobstructed views of the aerial performances.A Festival of Spectacle and Tradition
The festival program blends competitive elements with entertainment for all ages. Throughout the day, visitors witness free flying sessions where kite flyers showcase their skills and newest designs. Special events include candy drops and stuffed animal releases from a kite ferry, adding playful moments to the experience. The highlight for many is the night flying display, where LED-illuminated kites create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere as darkness falls—a truly exceptional sight that transforms the evening sky into a glowing canvas of moving lights and colors.A Growing Legacy
Since its inception, the festival has grown into a major cultural event on Denmark's calendar. The 2025 edition marks the 36th anniversary of this beloved gathering, reflecting decades of tradition and community dedication. The festival's success lies not only in attracting serious kite flyers who return year after year to display their creations, but also in its ability to captivate thousands of casual visitors who come simply to experience the wonder of hundreds of kites filling the sky simultaneously.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
The festival creates a unique sensory experience—the sight of colorful kites against the blue sky, the sound of wind and cheering crowds, and the energy of a community united by a shared love of this ancient art form. Whether you're an experienced kite flyer, a photography enthusiast, or simply someone seeking an unusual and memorable spectacle, the festival offers something extraordinary. The relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere encourages both participation and observation, making it accessible to visitors of all ages and backgrounds.Local tips
- Arrive early on Friday to secure good viewing spots and parking, as the festival attracts thousands of visitors and accommodation fills quickly throughout the weekend.
- Don't miss the LED night flying display on Saturday evening—the illuminated kites create a magical, otherworldly atmosphere that is one of the festival's most memorable highlights.
- Bring layers and wind-resistant clothing, as September weather on the Danish coast can be unpredictable, with strong westerly winds that are ideal for kites but challenging for spectators.
- Book accommodation well in advance, as hotels and holiday homes on Rømø experience extremely high demand during festival weekend due to limited availability.
- Bring binoculars or a camera with a good zoom lens to capture details of the intricate kite designs and enjoy close-up views of the aerial performances.
A brief summary to Rømø Dragefestival
- Lakolk Strand, Rømø, 6792, DK
- Visit website
Getting There
-
Car
Drive to Lakolk Strand via the E20 motorway toward Ribe, then follow signs to Rømø. The journey from Copenhagen takes approximately 4–5 hours. Parking is available on and near the beach, though spaces fill quickly during festival weekend. Expect limited parking availability and consider arriving early or using shuttle services if offered.
-
Train and Bus
Take a train from Copenhagen to Ribe station (approximately 3 hours), then transfer to a regional bus service toward Rømø and Lakolk Strand (approximately 45 minutes). During festival weekend, special shuttle buses may operate from nearby towns. Journey time is approximately 4–5 hours total, depending on connections.
-
Guided Tour
Book a festival package through Danish tourism operators or accommodation providers on Rømø, which often include transport from major cities, accommodation, and festival access. These typically cost between 600–1200 DKK per person for weekend packages and eliminate parking concerns.
-
Bicycle
Cycle from Ribe or other nearby towns to Rømø via the island's well-maintained cycling routes (approximately 20–30 km depending on starting point, 2–3 hours). The final approach to Lakolk Strand is flat and scenic. Bike parking is available near the beach, though securing a spot during peak festival times may be challenging.
