The skies above the Chao Phraya River will see colourful kites rising and swooping from Friday as kiting enthusiasts from all over Thailand and abroad join the “Iconsiam Summer Kite Playground 2023” festival, which will run until April 10.

Deputy Bangkok governor Sanon Wangsrangboon will preside over the opening ceremony on Friday at Iconsiam’s River Park in Khlong San district.

The city has always supported activities that highlight and preserve Thai tradition, Sanon said.

“Bangkok was planning to hold its own kite festival since last year but had to postpone it. So, this year the city decided to join Iconsiam, which has been holding kite festivals for two years in a row now,” Sanon said.

The third edition of the Iconsiam Summer Kite Playground is organised by Iconsiam, the Tourism Authority of Thailand, City Hall, and private partners.

Sanon urged Bangkok residents, both young and old, to experience the joy of kite flying amidst the cool breeze on the banks of the Chao Phraya River.

“It will be a truly fun-filled activity for all family members,” he said.

Visitors will also be treated to stage performances and booths selling handmade kites and traditional Thai products.

Highlights to look out for include daily kite battles as well as workshops on how to make and paint kites.

Kite novices can also learn how to fly and take care of their kites from experts.

From 5pm daily, kites equipped with LED lights will dazzle in the sky above the River of Kings.