National Kite Flying Day

8 February is National Kite Flying Day and celebrated annually by kite-flying enthusiasts globally.

Chinese folklore suggests that kites date back to 470 BC. There are various stories about the origins of the kite, some related to the way wind affects leaves on trees, the shelters people lived in, the sails on their ships and the hats they wore on their heads. Some suggest that kites were invented to spy on enemies or to send messages.

There is also evidence that the residents of the South Sea Islands were using kites for fishing around the same time as the people of China did.

The early kite consisted of bamboo or sturdy reeds for framing, leaves, silk or paper for the sail, and vines or braided fibres for the line or tether. The kites were mainly uses as tools, but were also ceremonial. They had a symbolic place in the culture and were used to send messages into the heavens or to lift offerings up to the gods.

Kites are still very popular – as a hobby as well as for outdoor fun. They range from simple diamond kites to more complicated box kites and even giant sled kites. Stunt kites, also known as sport kites, are designed to enable the operator to manoeuvre it into dips, twists and dives with dramatic effect.

Here are some tips on getting your kite up in the air and keep it there:

– Be sure the kite is assembled correctly.

– Check the wind. Some kites require more wind than others. Picking the right day for flying a kite is key. Generally a light breeze is ideal.

– Be safe. Don’t fly the kite near power lines, trees or other sky high obstacles. Wide open spaces are best.

– Be safer. Don’t fly in the rain.

– When launching the kite, be sure to have your back to the wind. If the wind is light, have a friend hold the kite down-wind and hold the line taught, reeling in slowly until the kite launches.

– Don’t let the line out too quickly. Let it out at the same pace the kite is gaining altitude.

To celebrate today is easy. Just go outside and fly your kite! If the weather does not want to play along, make one indoors. Invite your friends over and have a kite flying party!

Use #NationalKiteFlyingDay to post on social media.

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