More than 55 international kite flyers from 25 countries will join 500 Sri Lankan enthusiasts at Galle Face on August 24 for a breathtaking kite festival celebrating culture, unity, and global tradition.
All arrangements have been finalized to host the Colombo International Kite Festival at Galle Face on August 24, transforming the skies into a colorful canvas of creativity and cultural unity.
The festival, organized by Derana Media Network in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau under the Colombo Branding Project, highlights Sri Lanka as a vibrant tourist destination. First launched in 2015 as part of Derana Channel’s Lokaya Saha Lokayo program, the event has grown into a world-class celebration with international recognition.
This year’s edition will bring together 55 international kite flyers from 25 countries across five continents, alongside 500 Sri Lankan kite enthusiasts. Among the participating nations are Germany, the Netherlands, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Thailand, South Korea, Brazil, Tunisia, Turkey, Algeria, Libya, Nepal, India, Singapore, Reunion Island, France, Cambodia, Ukraine, Australia, and Vietnam. Each delegation will showcase the unique kite-making traditions and cultural expressions of their homeland.
Having represented Sri Lanka at prestigious kite festivals in Malaysia, Thailand, India, China, and France, the organizing team now brings that same international standard to Colombo. The event will position Galle Face alongside globally celebrated festivals such as the Gujarat International Kite Festival in India, the Weifang Kite Festival in China, the Dieppe Festival in France, Malaysia’s Pasir Gudang Festival, and the Washington State Kite Festival in the USA.
The kite, regarded worldwide as a symbol of peace, imagination, and connection, holds deep cultural and historic significance. From ancient Chinese battlefields to modern festivals in Europe and America, kites have symbolized freedom and joy across civilizations.
The Colombo International Kite Festival is not just a spectacle but also a celebration of Sri Lanka’s heritage, openness to the world, and commitment to cultural diplomacy. It is expected to attract thousands of spectators, boosting both tourism and global recognition for the island nation.
