The skies over Weifang burst into a carnival of colors this week as the 42nd International Kite Festival took flight on April 19 in the coastal city in Shandong province. Imagine looking up to see a 200-meter-long dragon-head kite, a dancing octopus, a floating carrot, or even a flying car — this is where creativity literally soars. A total of 257 teams from 51 countries and regions turned the sky into their playground, with visitors cheering as everything from traditional designs to wacky modern creations took to the air.

The event this year featured 58 activities, ranging from kite competitions and cultural tourism promotions to sports events and economic and trade collaborations.

Weifang is using its global influence in kiting to establish friendship all over the world, realizing "ancient and modern dialogue" and "Sino-foreign exchanges", Hans Peter Boehme, vice-president of the International Kite Federation, said at the festival's opening ceremony.

"Kiting in general is promoting the integration and development between different cultures in the world," he said.

Over the past four decades, Weifang's kite industry has soared to new heights, evolving into a vital economic driver. In 1984, when the first festival was held, the city had just over 20 small kite manufacturers with limited varieties.

Today, Weifang boasts more than 700 kite businesses, employing nearly 100,000 people and generating annual sales exceeding 2 billion yuan ($278 million).

The city now dominates 85 percent of the global kite market, exporting to over 60 countries and regions including the United States, Europe and Southeast Asia, said the city government. As kites continue to weave stories in Weifang's skies, the event cements its status as a world-renowned celebration of tradition and innovation.

Contact the writers at zhaoruixue@chinadaily.com.cn