International Kite Festival 

on the occasion of Makara Sankranti / Thai Pongal / Uttarayan / Lohri

Makara Sankranti is a festival celebrated in India that marks the end of the winter solstice and the start of the spring season. It is celebrated on the first day of the Hindu calendar month of Magha, which usually falls in January or February. This festival is celebrated by all Hindus, and is observed by people of all religions. During the festival, people exchange gifts, visit each other’s homes, and exchange sweets and savouries. The festival is also celebrated with music, singing, and dancing. Sankranti is an important agricultural festival that marks the end of the harvesting season and the beginning of the new crop cycle. People offer thanks to the Sun God and seek blessings for a good harvest. 

Kite flying is an integral part of Sankranti. Kites of all shapes and sizes are flown in the sky to celebrate the festival. It is believed that flying kites symbolizes freedom and is a way to express joy and freedom.

The symbolism of this festival is to show the awakening of the gods from their deep sleep. Through India's history, it is said that India created the tradition of kite flying due to the kings and royals, later followed by nawabs, who found the sport entertaining, and as a way to display their skills and power. Over time, as the sport became popular, it began to reach the masses. Kite flying has been a regional event in India for several years. However, the first international festival is being  celebrated in Folsom Ranch this year when people from all across the globe are invited to participate and showcase their innovative kites.

Please join to show off your kite flying talent and have fun with your neighbors!

Where: Mangini Ranch Elementary School playground

When: Sunday, Jan 29th, 2023 - 10:00 AM to 3 PM

Please use this link to Register 

Program :

10:00 AM  - Music and Dance starts

10:00 to 11:00 AM - Pre-Jan 22nd Registrants to purchase Kites from the stall

11:00 - 12:00 AM - All others can purchase kites based on availability

11:00 - 11:30 AM - Suryanamaskar - Yoga Exercise

11:30 to 1:30 PM - Kite Flying

12:30 to 1:30 PM - Lunch

1:30 to 2:00 PM - Thematic Exhibits walkthrough to Kids (Raffle prizes)

2:00 to 3:00 PM - Games and Prize distributions