Bali's kite season, from May to September, fills the skies with colorful kites and the spirit of joy. It's a time to connect with the island's culture, enjoy simple moments, and watch the beauty of kites soaring high.
Every year, as the dry season settles over Bali, the skies come alive with the most vibrant and beautiful sight. Kites of all shapes and sizes. From May to September, the island feels like it’s celebrating, with colorful kites soaring high above the beaches and rice fields. It’s not just about flying kites; it’s about coming together, enjoying the simple pleasures of life, and experiencing the magic of this island.
Kite flying here isn’t just a hobby; it’s part of life. I’ve learned that for the Balinese, kites are a way to connect with their spirituality and their community. Each kite is handmade, often by families or groups of friends, and every design has its own story. The dragon kites, fish-shaped kites, and leaf-shaped kites are especially popular. It’s incredible to think how much effort and heart goes into each one.
The highlight of my time here was the Bali Kite Festival at Sanur Beach. I remember arriving and being greeted by an explosion of color and sound. Giant kites, some as long as a bus, were being carefully prepared by teams of locals. Kids were running around, their laughter mixing with the traditional music played by a group of musicians.
When the kites took off, the crowd cheered, and it felt like the entire beach was holding its breath, watching these massive creations glide effortlessly into the sky. The energy was contagious, and for a moment, I felt like a kid again, marveling at something so simple yet so extraordinary.
While the festival is unforgettable, you don’t have to wait for it to enjoy kite season. One of my favorite afternoons was spent at Padang Galak Beach, lying on the sand and watching dozens of kites twist and turn in the wind. It’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience.
I even tried flying a kite myself, thanks to a friendly local who showed me how. My kite wasn’t the prettiest or the biggest, but seeing it catch the wind and rise made me smile like I hadn’t in a long time. It’s these little moments that make Bali so special.
There’s something magical about seeing the sky filled with kites. It’s a reminder of simpler times, of the joy that comes from being outside, sharing moments with others, and letting the wind take your worries away. For me, kite season in Bali wasn’t just about the kites. It was about feeling connected to the people, to the culture, and to the beauty of this amazing island.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Bali during kite season, take a moment to look up. You’ll see more than just kites. You’ll see stories, traditions, and the heart of Bali itself.