On November 22 and 23, Xiamen’s Yefengzhai Beach hosted the 2025 Cross-Straits (Xiamen) Kite Exchange, transforming the coastline into a sky full of color and motion. Against a backdrop of dynamic music, giant soft-body kites, uniquely shaped for maximum spectacle, soared above the waves in choreographed stunt formations.
The festival welcomed stunt kite teams and enthusiasts from the Chinese mainland and the Taiwan region, showcasing precision flights that drew thousands of locals and visitors eager to experience the thrill. From gravity-defying loop-the-loops to synchronized kite dances, each performance highlighted the growing passion for aerial arts across the strait.
Beyond the main shows, attendees of all ages found creative outlets in the public flying area and the kite painting DIY zone. Parent-child teams and trendsetting youths painted their own kites, blending traditional motifs with modern designs that later took flight over the beach.
Organizers say the two-day event not only boosts local tourism but also strengthens cross-strait cultural ties and inspires the next generation of aerial artists. As social media posts tagged #CrossStraits and #KiteFestival trended regionally, many young digital nomads and travel influencers made Xiamen their weekend destination.
Looking ahead, planners are already discussing ways to expand the festival, integrating tech-driven light kites and VR experiences to engage an even broader global audience in 2026.
Reference(s):
Cross-straits kite exchange dazzles beach with stunning displays
cgtn.com
