Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2026: Complete Guide to Dates, Venue, Timings & More
Imagine waking up to a winter morning where the sky itself becomes a celebration. Bright colours dance above you, rooftops echo with laughter, and the air carries one joyful shout again and again — “Kai Po Che!” This is not just a festival. This is Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2026, and once you experience it, you understand why people wait the whole year for these magical January days. Every year, Gujarat turns the simple joy of kite flying into a global celebration, and at the heart of it all is Ahmedabad. The Ahmedabad International Kite Festival 2026 is where tradition meets creativity, culture meets community, and the sky becomes a canvas of emotions. If you are planning to visit, curious to know the dates, venue, timings, attractions, or simply want to understand why this festival is so special — this complete guide is written for you.
What Makes Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2026 So Special?
Before diving into dates and venues, let’s pause for a moment and ask a simple question — why does this festival touch so many hearts? The Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2026 is not just about flying kites. It is about people coming together. Families on terraces, friends competing with smiles, strangers bonding over strings and colours. It marks Uttarayan, the day when the sun begins its northward journey, symbolising hope, warmth, and new beginnings. What truly sets Ahmedabad apart is the international scale of the celebration. Gujarat Tourism hosts this festival every year, inviting world-class kite flyers, artists, and enthusiasts from across the globe — making the sky of Ahmedabad a truly international stage.
History of the Ahmedabad International Kite Festival
To understand the soul of this festival, we must travel back in time.
The International Kite Festival has been officially celebrated in Ahmedabad since 1989 as part of the Uttarayan festivities. What started as a cultural celebration soon became a global attraction.
Over the years, the festival has welcomed:
- Malaysian Wau-Balang kites with stunning artistic patterns
- Japanese Rokkaku fighting kites, famous for their skill-based flying
- Indonesian Llayang-Llayang kites, known for their grace
- Chinese dragon kites, flying across the sky like living legends
- Giant banner and sculptural kites from the USA, Italy, Belgium, and more
This blend of tradition and innovation is what makes the Ahmedabad Kite Festival 2026 feel alive, modern, and deeply rooted in culture at the same time.
Ahmedabad Kite Festival 2026 Dates – When Does the Celebration Begin?
Now that you know why the festival matters, the next natural question is — when should you plan your visit?
Uttarayan & Kite Festival Dates Across Gujarat
The kite festival celebrations travel across Gujarat before reaching their grand finale in Ahmedabad:
- 10 January 2026 – Rajkot, Surat & Dholavira
- 11 January 2026 – Shivrajpur, SOU – Ekta Nagar & Vadnagar
- 12 to 14 January 2026 – Ahmedabad (Main Celebration)
If you can attend only one location, Ahmedabad is the place you should not miss. The scale, energy, and international presence here are unmatched.
Ahmedabad Kite Festival 2026 Dates: 12th January to 14th January 2026
Ahmedabad Kite Festival 2026 Timing – Best Time to Visit
Once you know the dates, timing becomes crucial — especially if you want the best experience.
- Festival Timings:
9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Daytime is perfect for watching competitive kite flying and international displays. But as the sun sets, something magical happens. Evenings bring illuminated box kites and LED night kites, turning the Sabarmati Riverfront into a glowing dreamscape. Many visitors say the night view is something they never forget.
Venue: Where Is the Kite Festival Held in Ahmedabad?
The heart of the celebration lies along the iconic riverfront.
- Venue:
Vallabh Sadan, Sabarmati Riverfront, Ahmedabad
The wide open space, modern facilities, and scenic backdrop make it ideal for both kite flyers and spectators.
Parking Details
- Two-wheelers: ₹10
- Four-wheelers: ₹20
Ahmedabad Kite Festival 2026 Ticket Price – Is Entry Free?
This is one of the most asked questions — and the answer makes the festival even more special.
👉 Ahmedabad Kite Festival 2026 Ticket Price: Absolutely FREE for all visitors
Some special zones or curated experiences may require passes, but general entry and viewing are open to everyone.
Ahmedabad International Kite Festival 2026 – A Global Celebration
What truly elevates this festival is its international spirit. Every year, kite flyers and tourists from Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Belgium, Italy, USA, Australia, UK, France, Brazil, Singapore, and more arrive in Ahmedabad.
You’ll see:
- Cultural exchanges without words
- Smiles shared across borders
- Art flying freely in the sky
The Ahmedabad International Kite Festival 2026 is proof that joy needs no language.
Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2026 Highlights You Should Not Miss
As we move deeper into the experience, let’s talk about what makes people stay from morning till night.
Key Highlights
- Giant 3D kites shaped like dragons, animals, rings & creative designs
- Traditional Indian fighter kites and friendly competitions
- Country-themed international kites
- LED and illuminated night kites
- Live folk music and cultural performances
- Handicraft and souvenir stalls
- Picture-perfect photography spots along the riverfront
These Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2026 Highlights ensure there’s never a dull moment.
Ahmedabad Kite Festival 2026 Attractions – What Will You See?
Beyond kite flying, the festival offers a complete cultural experience:
- Theme pavilions showcasing Gujarat’s tourism and kite heritage
- Kite demonstrations by global experts
- Handicraft markets featuring local art
- Refreshment and food stalls
Every attraction is thoughtfully curated to keep visitors engaged and connected.
Food That Warms the Winter – A Festival for Your Taste Buds
No festival in Ahmedabad is complete without food — and Uttarayan is no exception.
Must-try delicacies:
- Undhiyu
- Jalebi & Fafda
- Chikki and Laddoos
- Seasonal winter snacks
Food, laughter, and flying kites — the trio that defines Ahmedabad in January.
How to Participate in Ahmedabad International Kite Festival 2026
As a Visitor:
- Free public entry
- Arrive early to avoid crowds
- Carry sun protection and comfortable footwear
As a Kite Flyer:
- Participation is organised by Gujarat Tourism
- International flyers are officially invited
- Indian flyers can join local competitions
- Registration is required via official channels
Kite Festival 2026 Rules and Regulations
To keep the celebration safe and enjoyable:
- Follow local safety guidelines
- Avoid dangerous or prohibited kite strings
- Respect crowd control measures
- Fly kites only in designated areas
These rules and regulations ensure fun without harm.
How to Reach the Kite Festival Venue in Ahmedabad
- By Air: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport (≈10 km)
- By Rail: Kalupur Railway Station
- By Road: Easily accessible by bus, metro, or car
Extra Things to Do in Ahmedabad (If You Have Time)
If you’re already here, explore more:
- Ahmedabad Riverfront Flower Show
- Jama Masjid
- Atal Foot Over Bridge
- Kankaria Lake
- Hathi Singh Jain Temple
- Siddi Saiyyed Mosque
Why Ahmedabad Is the Best Place to Experience the Kite Festival
While many cities celebrate Uttarayan, Ahmedabad offers the complete experience:
- Longest celebration (3 days)
- Largest international participation
- Iconic riverfront venue
- Best tourist facilities
- Food, culture, shopping & nightlife — all in one city
🪁 Final Verdict – Why You Should Not Miss
There is no better place in India to witness the true spirit of kite flying. Watching hundreds of kites rise together, sometimes even 500 kites on a single string, is a sight that stays with you forever. The Kite Festival 2026 Ahmedabad is not just an event — it’s emotion, tradition, and celebration rolled into one unforgettable experience. Stay updated with ScoopNonStop — your go-to source for the latest breaking news, viral stories, city events, and grand melas across India.
FAQs About Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2026
1. What are the main highlights of Kite Festival Ahmedabad 2026?
The highlights include giant 3D kites, international kite performances, and traditional Indian fighter kites. Visitors can also enjoy LED night kites, live folk music, cultural dance shows, and photography spots at the Sabarmati Riverfront. The combination of culture, creativity, and community makes the festival truly unforgettable.
2. When will the Ahmedabad International Kite Festival 2026 be held?
The Ahmedabad International Kite Festival 2026 will be held from 12th January to 14th January 2026. These three days mark the grand celebration of Uttarayan in Ahmedabad. The festival continues throughout the day with kite flying, cultural programs, food stalls, and night kite displays.
3. How can I participate in the International Kite Festival in Gujarat?
Participation as a kite flyer is usually managed by Gujarat Tourism. International participants are often invited officially, while Indian kite flyers can join local competitions and demonstrations. Interested participants must register through the official website or contact the organisers in advance to take part in the festival.
4. Is the Kite Festival 2026 suitable for families and children?
Yes, the festival is completely family-friendly and suitable for visitors of all age groups. Children enjoy watching colorful kites, themed displays, and cultural performances, while adults appreciate the festive atmosphere. The open riverfront venue and organised arrangements make it safe and enjoyable for families.
5. What food options are available during the Kite Festival in Ahmedabad?
During the festival, visitors can enjoy authentic Gujarati winter dishes like undhiyu, jalebi, fafda, chikki, and laddoos. Food stalls are set up around the venue offering snacks, sweets, and warm beverages. Trying local food while watching kites fly is an essential part of the Ahmedabad Kite Festival experience.
