A multitude of colourful kites of all shapes and sizes flew over Għarb at the weekend as people of all ages took part in the first International Kite and Wind Festival.

The event drew professional kite-makers and fliers from Italy, England, Portugal, France, Germany, Switzerland, Russia, Poland and as far away as Brazil, Argentina, Vietnam, India, Malaysia and Japan. They presented kites of various types such as inflatables, parafoils, deltas, box kites, cellulars, sleds and fighter kites. Some even opted to bring over their own traditional kites.

The festival kicked off with kite-making workshops for students at the Gozo Sports Complex on Friday, followed by an opening parade featuring the international kite makers in Għarb Square later in the evening.

Saturday featured more workshops and flying displays which took place until late in the day near St Demetrius chapel, on the outskirts of Għarb.

The displays resumed yesterday and included a competition open to all attendees. Points were awarded on artistic features, originality, technique and construction.

The event coincided with the feast of St Demetrius and was complemented by a fair, a fireworks display and live entertainment. A traditional bonfire closed off the festival.

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