In January 2026, the skies of Gujarat will rise with a riot of colourful colors and creativity. On a more cosmopolitan level however, the International Kite Festival (IKF) 2026 at Uttarayan which is widely celebrated with celebration not just on the local level of this festival itself but on a global (cultural) level too – a cross-region affair attracting people from more than 40 countries that love kite. Glamourous inflatable dragons and fighting kites, the 2026 celebration looks to be a magnificent display of skill and competition.
International Kite Festival 2026: Official Schedule & Venues
Hosted by the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL), the festival cuts through historic sites and modern landscapes. The city-wise schedule, officially IKF 2026. The Grand Opening (January 10 – 11) celebrations kick off simultaneously in various historical and industrial centres:
- January 10, 2026: Celebrations start in Rajkot, Surat and the ancient Harappan city of Dholavira.
- January 11, 2026: The festival takes place near the scenic Shivrajpur Beach, in conjunction with the majestic Statue of Unity (Ekta Nagar), along with the historic town of Vadnagar.
The Main Event: Ahmedabad (January 12 – 14)
"Ahmedabad is at the very centre of the celebration." The Sabarmati Riverfront is the largest international venue and many thousands of visitors come from foreign countries for the show.
- January 12 – 14, 2026: Live international kite flying events, workshops, and night-kite presentations at the Riverfront.
- January 13, 2026: Special events in Vadodara and Dhordo (White Rann).
- January 14, 2026: The peak of Makar Sankranti. But while the international event is drawing to a close on its major exhibits, every rooftop in Gujarat is turned into a battlefield for local kite flying at the same time.
Key Highlights of IKF 2026
International Participation. We're expecting master kite makers from Malaysia to show their Wau-balang kites, Indonesia's Llayang-llayang, and Japanese Rokkaku fighting kites. American and Italian innovations frequently involve massive sculptural and banner kites that overwhelm the skyline.
The Night Sky: Tukkals and Lanterns. The sky does not go dark on the night of January 14. It glistens over with Tukkals (illuminated kites) and long strings of lanterns (fanoos) that float gracefully through the air, forming a "city of lights" in the atmosphere.
Traditional Gujarati Flavors
No Uttarayan can be enjoyed without the seasonal delicacies:
- Undhiyu: Slow-cooked vegetable casserole.
- Jalebi-Fafda: The Gujarati classic breakfast you know, pure and simple.
- Til-Gud Laddoos: Sesame and jaggery sweets to provide energy for the long day on the terrace.
Cultural Exhibitions & Crafts
The Sabarmati Riverfront will also have a Theme Pavilion showcasing the history of kites and tourism in the state of Gujarat. A dedicated Handicraft Market will provide space to display local artisans, from Bandhani textiles to Kutch embroidery.
Essential Tips for Visitors
- Accommodation: Be sure to book your hotel located in Ahmedabad or Kevadia 2 or 3 weeks in advance. The festival sees approximately 100% occupancy in the city.
- Safety First: Be wary of the Manja (glass-coated string) if you are joining locals on rooftops. It is incredibly sharp.
- Timing: The international kites at the Riverfront are best enjoyed watching between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.
- Cost of Entry: Visitors are usually granted free entry into the International Kite Festival viewing area.
