China Has an EPIC International Kite Festival Like Nothing You’ve Ever Seen Before

Thousands of visitors flock to China’s Shandong province each year to marvel at the colorful kites showcased at the Weifang International Kites Festival.

Held every April in Weifang since 1984, the annual event hosts kite fliers from all over the world for a week of festivities.

About 120,000 spectators witnessed the parade of over 10,000 multi-colored kites from 60 different countries during the opening for the 36th Weifang International Kite Festival on Saturday.

A lavish production number consisting of thousands of dancers, acrobats, and drummers entertained the crowd in the opening ceremony.

Performances by various Chinese singers are also held in the evening at the gala during the competition period.

In the actual kite flying competitions, kite flyers from around the world showcase kites of all shapes and sizes in the field.

Among the kite designs presented in this year’s edition included pigs, mythological figures, fish, fairies, some wise old men and popular cartoon characters.

Considered by many as the birthplace of kites, Weifang has been known as the kite capital of the world.

The first International Kite Festival was held in Weifang with the support of the Seattle Kite Association in 1984.

Featured image via Instagram/h.hoharan

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