International Kite & Sweet Festival 2026
Celebrate the vibrant spirit of Makar Sankranti at the International Kite & Sweet Festival 2026 in Hyderabad! This iconic event, organized by the Telangana Tourism Department, transforms the city’s skyline into a kaleidoscope of colors while offering a mouth-watering journey through India’s rich culinary heritage.
Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a foodie, or a family looking for the perfect weekend outing, this festival is the ultimate destination to experience the "Mini India" charm of Hyderabad.
📅 Event Dates & Timings
- Dates: January 13, 14, and 15, 2026 (Tuesday – Thursday)
- Main Kite Festival Timings: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily
- Cultural Programs & Stalls: Open until 11:00 PM
📍 Venue & Location
Parade Grounds, Secunderabad
Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
- Nearest Metro Station: Parade Grounds Metro (Interchange for Blue and Green lines) – Highly recommended to avoid traffic.
- Nearest Railway Station: Secunderabad Junction (approx. 2 KM).
🎟️ Admission & Entry Details
- Entry Fee: FREE for all visitors.
- Registrations: No prior registration is required for general public viewing.
- Parking: Designated parking is usually available at Gymkhana Grounds and Bison Polo Grounds, though public transport is advised due to high footfall (estimated 1.5 million visitors).
🪁 Key Highlights: What to Expect
1. International Kite Showcase
Watch master kite flyers from over 20 countries (including Indonesia, Switzerland, Australia, and Malaysia) and 15+ Indian states display massive, creative kites. Expect to see giant 3D kites in the shapes of dragons, whales, eagles, and cartoon characters.
2. The International Sweet Festival
A unique "festival within a festival," featuring over 1,000 varieties of sweets.
- Home-Cooked Delicacies: Hundreds of homemakers from various linguistic communities (including Gujarati, Marathi, Bengali, and Malayali) prepare and sell authentic, traditional sweets.
- Telangana Specials: Don’t miss local favorites like Ariselu, Muccalu, and various Laddoos.
3. Drone & Hot Air Balloon Festivals (New for 2026!)
For 2026, the festivities have expanded:
- Drone Festival: January 13–14 at Parade Grounds, featuring spectacular light shows.
- Hot Air Balloon Festival: January 16–18 (at the periphery/outskirts of the city).
4. Cultural Performances & Shopping
- Nightly Entertainment: Traditional folk dances (Perini, Shiva Tandavam) and musical performances.
- Handicraft Stalls: Shop for authentic Telangana handlooms, Pochampally silks, and local arts and crafts.
💡 Tips for Visitors
- Arrive Early: The best kite-flying winds and smallest crowds are usually before 11:00 AM.
- Stay Hydrated: While water facilities are provided, it is recommended to carry your own reusable bottle.
- Photography: The "Golden Hour" (late afternoon) offers the best lighting for capturing the colorful kites against the Hyderabad sky.
- CASH: While many food stalls accept UPI/digital payments, carrying some cash is helpful for smaller handicraft vendors.
📞 Official Contact & Information
For official updates, visit the Telangana Tourism Official Website or the Utsav Portal.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Parade Ground, CFVV+J4W, General Choudhary Rd, NCC Ground, Gunrock Enclave, Secunderabad, Telangana 500003, India, Hyderabad
