GRANDY AIR ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Duneward Flight: The 54th Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular on the Outer Banks
A four-day, free-to-watch gathering in Nags Head and Jarvisburg showcasing dune and aerotow competitions, pilot reunions, demos and awards—this guide orients you to when, where and what to expect.
Duneward Flight: The 54th Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular on the Outer Banks.
Hosted by Kitty Hawk Kites, the 54th Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular gathers professional pilots, families and fans across Nags Head and Jarvisburg for a multi-day program of dune competition, aerotow competition, pilot check-in, social reunions and an awards ceremony—recognized as the longest-running hang gliding competition in the world and free for the public to watch.
Highlights
Event Highlights
Four days of competition and community
Across May 14–17, the Spectacular stages dune and aerotow competitions alongside pilot gatherings, a street dance and an awards ceremony; the schedule is weather dependent and subject to change, and public viewing is free.
Jockey’s Ridge and Cotton Gin
Events take place at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head and at Cotton Gin in Jarvisburg, linking dune launches with inland gatherings over the four-day program.
A deep roster and occasional demos
The Spectacular has hosted more than 100 pilots in past years, and demo gliders from major brands may be available during the event.
What the day feels like
What it feels like to attend
Over four days spectators trace the arc of a competition season condensed: pilots arrive and check in, dune and aerotow heats run when weather allows, and evenings bring reunions, social events and an awards ceremony—an experience as much about community as aerial skill.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this event and who should plan differently.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The 54th Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular runs May 14–17, 2026.
Primary locations are Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head and Cotton Gin in Jarvisburg; events span both sites over the four days.
The event is free for the public to view.
Demo gliders may be available from major brands during the event; check vendor and operator announcements for specifics.
Programming—including competitions and demos—is weather dependent and subject to change; confirm the latest schedule through the event's online channels.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is the Hang Gliding Spectacular free to attend?
Yes—this event is free for the public to watch.
When does the 54th Annual Hang Gliding Spectacular take place?
The event runs May 14–17, 2026.
Where are the competitions held?
Competitions and public viewing occur at Jockey’s Ridge State Park in Nags Head and at Cotton Gin in Jarvisburg.
Will there be demo gliders on site?
Demo gliders may be available from major brands during the event.
Is the schedule fixed?
No—the event schedule is weather dependent and subject to change.
Who operates the event?
The Spectacular is presented by Kitty Hawk Kites.