Fri Jan 16 15:57:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: International Kite Festival Takes Flight in Mangaluru, India
The Story:
The International Kite Festival is set to commence at Tannirbhavi beach in Mangaluru on January 17 and 18, 2026. Organized by Team Mangalore in association with the District administration as part of the ongoing Karavali Utsava, the festival will feature 62 kite flyers from 15 foreign countries and several Indian states. Attendees can expect a display of diverse kites, including aerofoil and inflatable designs, along with traditional and locally inspired kites.
Key Points:
* The International Kite Festival will be held on January 17 and 18, 2026, at Tannirbhavi beach in Mangaluru.
* 62 kite flyers will participate, including 30 from 15 foreign countries and 32 from Indian states.
* Foreign countries represented include Germany, Estonia, Italy, Sweden, Thailand, Korea, Ukraine, Brazil, Canada, Switzerland, Vietnam, Singapore, France, and Indonesia.
* Indian states represented include Odisha, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Karnataka, and Kerala.
* The festival will feature traditional kites, aerofoil, inflatable, and locally themed kites like ‘Venkataramana temple chariot’ and mythological characters.
* Parking arrangements have been made at 10 different places with ferry access from Sulthan Bathery.
* Stunt kite flyer teams from Thailand, Indonesia, and Estonia will perform.
* Clare Lousie Hardwick from the UK is participating for the second year.
Key Takeaways:
* The International Kite Festival is a significant cultural event attracting both international and domestic participants.
* The festival boosts local tourism and provides a platform for cultural exchange.
* The event is well-organized, with provisions for parking and transportation for attendees.
First Piper 