Members of the Weifang Kite Association in South Korea. (Photo: Global Times)

Weifang began its kite festival in 1984. The city is home to Chinese philosopher Mo Di, who almost 2,500 years ago, reputedly spent three years making a flying wooden bird, the earliest kite in history. Nowadays there are more than 100 kite factories in Weifang with many local families hand-making kites in their leisure time.

"Flying kites is more about recreation and art in China, as well as a way to honor your ancestors in Chinese tradition," Gao commented.

After being laid off from his factory job eight years ago, 46-year-old Hui Junshe turned his focus to his passion - painting beautiful kites.

"My favorite image is the legendary figure in Journey to the West and traditional Chinese paintings of beautiful women," Hui said, adding that the annual kite festival provides him with plenty of opportunities to paint, including some modern designs that incorporate company logos and insignia.

"Weifang is known for its delicate design and folding combined with traditional Chinese painting, bright colors and strong presentation of folk culture," Hui explained.

After 27 years of development, the international kite festival is an important event on the municipal calendar, according to Xu Liquan, mayor of Weifang, as it not only attracts visitors but also encourages industrial development, investment and promoting the city's image.

This year, kite flyers from 30 countries, including the US, France, Italy and Belgium have signed up for the two-day international competition, which includes sports rounds and a performance exhibition. Prizes are awarded for the longest, largest, best overall performance and best traditional kite, as well as best inflatable.

Gao said that despite the festival's success, many in the city view it as simply an economic activity, with a kite school that opened in 1997 closing one year later. He added that more interest is needed in the sport by young people.

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