The week-long International Kite Festival began on a cheerful note in Gujarat’s Ahmedabad on 8th January 2023, setting off the festive vibe as the state gears up to celebrate the first festival of the year – Makar Sankranti – locally known as Uttarayan. Inaugurated by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, the International Kite Festival 2023 will host over 125 kite flyers from 68 countries, 65 from other states, and 660 more expert kite flyers from different parts of India.
Kites of all colors, shapes, sizes, and designs dot the beautiful skies of Gujarat during the seven days of this kite festival until its culmination on 14th January 2023. The riot of swaying colors across the plain blue canvas of the unassuming sky is a visual treat! And with the soaring kites soars the competitive spirit, reaching its zenith when cheerful cries of ‘kai po che’ reverberate the surroundings.
International Kite Festival has officially been a part of the Uttarayan celebrations in Gujarat since 1989. The event only got bigger and better with each passing year, thus attracting more and more people from all across the country and even the world. It is now one of the biggest celebrations in Gujarat.
Where does the International Kite Festival take place?
Although different cities in Gujarat, Telangana, and Rajasthan host International Kite Festivals every year, the kite festival in Ahmedabad is the most popular of them all. It sees the attendance of a sea of crowds, from Indians to international travelers flying all the way to Ahmedabad from USA, UK, Italy, Canada, Japan, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia among other countries.
Sabarmati Riverfront near Vallabh Sadan located along Ashram Road is the venue for the annual International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad. Travelers can reach this place in about 15 minutes by hiring a taxi or cab from Sardar Vallabhai Patel International Airport.
What are the dates of the International Kite Festival 2023?
This year, the International Kite Festival is returning to Gujarat with a week-long celebration that started on 8th January 2023 and will continue till 14th January 2023.
Is there any entry fee to the International Kite Festival?
There is no entry fee to attend this festival in Ahmedabad. Reportedly, visitors will not be allowed near the kite-flying zone exclusive to the participants.
What is the theme of the International Kite Flying Festival 2023?
The theme of the International Kite Flying Festival 2023 is in line with the motto of India’s G20 Presidency – “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” i.e. “One Earth. One Family. One Future”.
What can you expect at the International Kite Festival, Gujarat?
A globally recognized event, the International Kite Festival is a grand take on the Sankranti tradition of kite-flying. Not only does it encourage people to come together to celebrate our age-old tradition, but the International Kite Festival also showcases the creativity of kite-makers whose painstaking efforts are reflected in their innovatively elaborate kites. Other attractions at the International Kite Festival include:
- A colorful Patang Bazaar where you can buy different kinds of kites.
- Food stalls that treat visitors to authentic Ahmedabad food, including delicious festive-special sweets.
- Workshops on making and flying kites.
- A pavilion themed on the history of kite-making.
- Cultural programs from 7 pm to 9 pm at the riverfront.
Along with these, a major highlight of the International Kite Festival is the release of tukkals/tukals (kites illuminated with candles and lights) into the night sky. Simply said, it’s a sight to behold!
So, what are you waiting for? It’s not too late to fly back home! Get your hands on cheap last-minute flights to Ahmedabad and celebrate Uttarayan with your family and friends. Don’t miss out on the International Kite Festival 2023!
