The International Kite & Sweet Festival Hyderabad 2026 is one of Telangana’s most vibrant cultural celebrations, held every year during the Sankranti festival season. Known for its colorful skies, global participation, and rich food heritage, the festival brings together kite flyers, artisans, performers, and food lovers from across India and the world. With free entry and family-friendly attractions, it is a must-visit event in Hyderabad’s January calendar.
Festival Overview
The International Kite & Sweet Festival is organized by the Telangana Department of Tourism and Culture, in association with cultural bodies, to promote traditional festivals, tourism, and local craftsmanship. The event beautifully blends heritage, community participation, and international culture in one grand celebration.
International Kite & Sweet Festival Hyderabad 2026
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Event Name | International Kite & Sweet Festival |
| Dates | January 13 – January 15, 2026 |
| Venue | Parade Grounds, Secunderabad, Hyderabad |
| Timings | 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Organized By | Telangana Department of Tourism & Culture |
| Main Attractions | International kite flying, sweet festival, cultural shows |
| Participants | 40 international flyers, 55 Indian flyers |
| Food Stalls | 60+ sweet & cuisine stalls |
| Exhibitions | 100+ handloom & handicraft stalls |
| Suitable For | Families, kids, tourists |
| Nearest Railway Station | Secunderabad Junction (2 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (35 km) |
Kite Festival Highlights
The kite festival is the main attraction and a visual delight for visitors of all ages. The skies above Parade Grounds come alive with giant, artistic, and themed kites flown by expert kite flyers.
- Participation from 40 international kite flyers representing 19 countries
- 55 national kite flyers from 15 Indian states
- Unique kites shaped like animals, cartoon characters, monuments, and cultural symbols
- Daytime flying and special night kite-flying sessions with illuminated kites
This global participation makes Hyderabad one of India’s most recognized kite festival destinations.
International Sweet Festival Experience
Running alongside the kite festival is the hugely popular International Sweet Festival, a paradise for food lovers.
- Over 1,200 varieties of sweets
- 60+ food stalls featuring Telangana delicacies and cuisines from other Indian states
- Sweets prepared by home chefs and women entrepreneurs, celebrating culinary diversity
- A unique opportunity to taste traditional recipes rarely found in commercial outlets
While entry is free, food purchases are chargeable and reasonably priced.
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Ticket price
- Entry to the festival: Completely free
- Food, rides, and balloon activities: Paid
- Hot Air Balloon Festival (if attending): Separate ticketing may apply
Ticket site
Visit the official website.
How to Book International Kite & Sweet Festival Hyderabad
- No ticket booking required as entry to the festival is free.
- Visit Parade Grounds, Secunderabad on January 13–15, 2026.
- Carry a valid photo ID for security checks.
- For paid activities (food stalls, balloon rides), purchase directly at the venue or via official Telangana Tourism counters.
- Follow updates on the Telangana Tourism official website or social media for any schedule changes.
Tip: Arrive early in the evening for the best kite-flying views and cultural performances.
Cultural Programs & Live Performances
The festival is not limited to kites and food. Each evening features traditional cultural performances that showcase Telangana’s heritage and India’s classical arts.
Popular performances include:
- Perini Dance
- Shiva Tandavam
- Bharatanatyam
- Kuchipudi
- Folk music and regional dance forms
These programs add a strong cultural identity to the festival and attract art enthusiasts.
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Handloom, Handicrafts & Exhibitions
Visitors can explore around 100 stalls displaying:
- Telangana handlooms
- Traditional handicrafts
- Artifacts and souvenirs
- Local artisan products
This section supports local craftsmen and offers authentic shopping experiences.
International Kite & Sweet Festival Hyderabad 2026 – Attractions, Events, Shows & Food
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Attraction | International Kite Flying Displays |
| Kite Events | Giant kites, themed kites, night kite flying |
| International Participation | 40 flyers from 19 countries |
| National Participation | 55 kite flyers from 15 Indian states |
| Cultural Shows | Perini Dance, Shiva Tandavam, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi |
| Folk Performances | Telangana folk music and dance shows |
| Food Festival | International Sweet Festival |
| Sweet Varieties | 1,200+ traditional & global sweets |
| Food Stalls | 60+ Telangana & multi-state cuisine stalls |
| Shopping | 100+ handloom & handicraft stalls |
| Family Activities | Kids-friendly zones, cultural exhibits |
Venue
How to Reach Parade Grounds, Secunderabad
Due to heavy crowds, public transport is highly recommended.
- Nearest Airport: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (Approx. 35 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Secunderabad Junction (Approx. 2 km)
- Metro Access: Secunderabad East & Parade Grounds area stations
- City Buses & Taxis: Easily available across Hyderabad
Special public transport arrangements are usually announced during the festival days.
Why You Should Visit
- One of India’s largest kite festivals
- A rare combination of culture, food, art, and international participation
- Free entry, making it accessible for families and tourists
- Perfect Sankranti holiday experience in Hyderabad
FAQs
1. Is there an entry fee for the festival?
No. Entry to the International Kite & Sweet Festival is completely free for all visitors.
2. What are the festival dates and timings?
The festival will be held from January 13 to 15, 2026, between 9:00 AM and 11:00 PM daily.
3. Where is the festival held?
The event takes place at Parade Grounds, Secunderabad, Hyderabad.
4. Are international participants part of the festival?
Yes. Kite flyers from 19 countries and 15 Indian states participate every year.
5. What food options are available at the festival?
Visitors can enjoy 1,200+ varieties of sweets and dishes from 60+ food stalls, including traditional Telangana and international cuisines.
6. Are there cultural programs during the event?
Yes. The festival features classical and folk performances such as Perini, Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and other cultural shows.
7. Is the festival suitable for children and families?
Absolutely. The festival is family-friendly with activities suitable for all age groups.
8. How can I reach the venue easily?
The nearest railway station is Secunderabad Junction (2 km). Visitors are advised to use public transport due to heavy crowds.
9. Are paid activities available inside the venue?
Yes. While entry is free, food purchases, souvenirs, and activities like balloon rides (if available) are chargeable.
10. Where can I get official updates about the festival?
For the latest updates, visit the Telangana Tourism official website or follow their verified social media channels.
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