Just when you think kites are only childhood memories, Bali throws a sky-high celebration to prove they can be seriously epic.

Participants fly kites during the Indonesia International Kite Festival on August 1.

The 2025 Indonesia International Kite Festival is now in full swing on Sanur Beach, Bali. Over 500 giant kites have taken to the skies, from sharks, dragons, and turtles to sci-fi spaceships and Transformers, making the sky look like a cartoon in motion. Ninety-five kite masters from 25 countries are competing in Bali’s ocean breeze, showing off whose kite flies the highest, the steadiest, or the most outrageous, all hot topics among excited spectators.

Participants fly kites during the Indonesia International Kite Festival on August 1.

More than just a cultural symbol of Bali, the festival is a highlight of the year for kite lovers around the world. Some come to chase the wind, others to snap photos, and many simply to let go and enjoy a truly “uplifting” escape. As the sea breeze rises and kites soar, people gather at this closest place to the sky to watch childhood memories, craftsmanship, and dreams take flight together.

A group of participants prepare to launch a kite at the festival.