Upd. 16/07/24

The Sky-Soaring Kite Festival Takes Fight in Bali!

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The mass kite flying in Bali coincides with the peak of the dry season when strong winds blow. This annual event takes place in the Padang Galak area of Sanur Beach.

During this time, "pelayangs" (kite pilots) start flying their kites, a practice that has been part of Balinese culture for hundreds of years. These enthusiasts are often referred to as Rare Angon. In Balinese culture, Rare Angon is considered the god of kites. According to legend, during kite season or after the harvest, Rare Angon descends to Earth, carrying a flute which he plays to summon the wind.

Before the kites take flight, a ritual ceremony is conducted to purify them and express gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

Kite flying in Bali is not just a leisure activity; it is a picturesque reflection of the island's rich cultural heritage, embodying the creativity, skill, and deep-rooted traditions of the Balinese people.

Teams are formed from "banjars" (neighborhoods or villages) around Denpasar. Each group consists of about 70-80 people, including kite flyers. A team loses if their kite touches the ground.

There is also a competition for kite designers, showcasing kites in various forms, from different Hindu deities to products of event sponsors. Interestingly, the materials used for these kites are always bamboo and cotton.

For reference, the largest kite flown in Bali to date was made by the Meranggi family, featuring a tail 150 meters long, a wingspan of 10 meters, and a body length of 15 meters, weighing approximately 80 kilograms.

The opening of the kite festival is from July 14th to 16th, with the closing ceremony in October at Padang Galak beach Sanur.