National Kite Flying Day
Have some outdoor fun on #NationalKiteFlyingDay
8 February is National Kite-flying Day and is celebrated annually by kite flying enthusiasts globally.
Kites originated in China in about 470BC. The country has masses of folklore and histories surrounding the origins of the kite. Many of these theories are related to the way wind affects leaves on trees, the shelters they lived in, blowing away the sails on their ships and the hats they wore upon their heads. The stories also tell of kites being invented to spy on their enemies or to send messages.
There is also evidence that the residents of the South Sea Islands were using kites for fishing at about the same time as the people of China were using them.
The construction of 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 used 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 today – 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 manoeuver them into dips, twists and dives with dramatic effect.
Here are some tips for getting your kite up into the air and keeping it there:
– Be sure the kite is assembled correctly.
– Check the wind. Some kites require more wind and others less. Picking the right day for your kite is key. A light breeze is generally optimal.
– 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 your line taught, reeling in slowly until the kite launches.
– Don’t let the line out too quickly. Let the line out at the pace at which 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!
Make this day even more special, by watching this video:
Use #NationalKiteFlyingDay to post on social media.
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