Ahmedabad: Uttarayan, or Makar Sankranti, holds special cultural significance in Gujarat, with kite enthusiasts across the state marking the festival by flying colourful kites. This year, the ‘International Kite Festival–2026’ will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the morning of January 12, 2026, at the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad. The inaugural ceremony will also be attended by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

The festival will be held in Ahmedabad from January 12 to 14, 2026, and will feature international and national kite flyers showcasing a variety of large and artistic kites. A special night kite-flying session is scheduled for January 13. Other highlights include a heritage haveli and ancient bridge installation reflecting Ahmedabad’s architectural traditions, a colourful handicraft market, a kite museum along the heritage walkway, iconic photo-wall installations, and cultural programmes beginning at 7 pm. Renowned folk singer Kinjalben Dave will also perform during the festival.

A total of 1,071 kite enthusiasts will participate in the event, including 135 international flyers from 50 countries, 65 participants from 13 Indian states, and 871 kite flyers from 16 districts of Gujarat. To promote local culture, 25 handicraft stalls and 15 food stalls will be set up, offering regional crafts and cuisine.

In addition to Ahmedabad, the International Kite Festival–2026 will be organised at multiple locations across the state. Events will be held in Rajkot, Surat and Dholavira (Kutch) on January 10; Vadnagar, Shivrajpur and the Statue of Unity on January 11; and Vadodara on January 13.

Last year, the festival attracted more than 3.83 lakh visitors across Gujarat. Through the International Kite Festival, Gujarat Tourism aims to promote the state’s major cultural and tourist destinations at both national and international levels. According to Gujarat Tourism estimates, over five lakh tourists are expected to visit the state during the 2026 edition of the festival. DeshGujarat