Bantul (ANTARA) - The Jogja International Kite Festival, which is taking place at Parangkusumo Beach in Parangtritis, Bantul District, Yogyakarta Special Region (DIY), on July 26 and 27, 2025, has brought together kite enthusiasts from around the world.

Six countries—the United States, Slovenia, Slovakia, Germany, South Korea, and Malaysia—are participating in the festival and have contributed around 35 kites to the exhibition, chairperson of the 2025 Jogja International Kite Festival committee, Anang Saryanto, said at the festival’s opening on Saturday.

The festival has also drawn participants from at least 25 domestic kite clubs from various Indonesian cities, including Bandar Lampung, Cilacap, Kebumen, Solo, and Magelang.

“This year’s national competition features approximately 200 kites, with categories including traditional Yogyakarta kites, two-dimensional flat kites, and three-dimensional kites showcasing diverse shapes,” Saryanto informed.

Bantul District Head Abdul Halim Muslih lauded the government of Yogyakarta Special Region for its continuous support for the kite festival at Parangkusumo, recognizing its growing appeal as a tourist attraction.

Related news: Mundu Pesisir Village in Cirebon holds International Kite Festival

“This festival will significantly increase tourist visits to Bantul Regency and contribute to the prosperity of Bantul residents,” he said.

According to the district head, the international kite festival, funded by the Special Fund (Danais), has a crucial role in advancing Bantul’s tourism and cultural sectors, promising substantial tourism performance.

He further expressed the hope that the Parangkusumo Parangtritis Beach area, the venue for the international event, will gain greater recognition as a renowned tourist destination in Yogyakarta.

“Hopefully, this kite festival will continue to run sustainably, becoming a cherished tradition and a reliable addition to the tourism calendar in Bantul District for the people of Yogyakarta,” he added.

Related news: Over 150 kites displayed at Bandung Int`l Festival

Reporter: Hery Sidik, Aditya Eko Sigit Wicaksono
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
Copyright © ANTARA 2025