Kite flying is more than just a pastime. It is a dance with the wind that has inspired generations across continents for centuries.
Kites are believed to have originated in ancient China over two millennia ago. Early records suggest that kites were not mere toys; rather, they held ceremonial significance, served as a means of measuring distances, and played a role in military operations by launching signals or spreading propaganda.
As their reputation traversed the globe, kites evolved in countries such as India, Japan, and Korea. Each culture has embraced kite flying for its aesthetic values and has attached local symbolism to the practice.
As kite flying spread, so did the creativity behind its designs. Today, kite enthusiasts can choose from a variety of kites. Traditional kites are often made of paper or lightweight fabric on a bamboo frame. Steeped in heritage, these kites come in numerous shapes, from the simple diamond to intricately patterned ones. Box kites are recognized for their three-dimensional structure. These kites offer stability in turbulent winds. Their design, a framework of wooden rods or plastic struts enveloped by fabric, is a marvel of engineering that blends artistic flair with aerodynamic functionality. More recent designs, such as delta and parafoil kites, are chosen by many for their lightweight nature and agility. With their triangular shape, Delta kites are perfect for beginners and performers alike, while parafoil kites, lacking a rigid frame, rely on the inflatable structure formed by the wind. This design is both innovative and portable. Stunt kites are engineered for precision and agility. Their quick-response systems and maneuvering capabilities create a dazzling aerial ballet, making them favorites in competitive arenas.
Today, kite flying is celebrated for its simplicity and versatility. On a quiet, breezy day at the park or along a stretch of beach, basic kite flying invites us to reconnect with the natural forces of the wind. This meditative process requires careful attentiveness to the wind and a rhythmic release of tension on the string.
Kite flying has evolved into organized competitions and games. Kite festivals and contests draw communities together, promoting innovation in design and technique. These events not only honor the traditional craft of kite making but also acknowledge artistic expression and precise aerodynamics.
An interesting variation on the activity is kite flying, popular in parts of Asia, such as Afghanistan, India, and even Brazil, is kite fighting. Participants engage in high-flying duels where the objective is to trim the opponent's string using carefully prepared kites and techniques passed down through generations. This sport tests skill, strategy, and an understanding of the wind and kite dynamics. It transforms the simple act of flying a kite into an adrenaline-fueled contest where every gust of wind carries the potential for victory or defeat.
Whether enjoying a lazy afternoon under a clear sky with a handmade kite or competing in battles of finesse and skill, kite flying enthusiasts find that the art of flying a kite is a unique, multifaceted hobby.
Topics related to kite flying are appropriate for this category, although retail sites would be listed in the corresponding category within our Shopping & eCommerce section.
Recommended Resources
The ABC Kite Fest is a long-running Austin, Texas, tradition celebrating kite flying, creativity, and community. The event features a kite contest, children's concert, and a Kids Club with activities like bounce houses and face painting. VIP experiences are available with the purchase of a High Flyer Club pass, which includes reserved parking, specialty food options, and private air-conditioned restrooms. Schedules and information about becoming an exhibitor, vendor, or supporter are set forth.
https://abckitefest.org/
American Kitefliers Association
AKA is the largest organization of kite enthusiasts in the world, with thousands of members across 25 countries. Founded in 1964, the AKA brings together people passionate about flying, whether for sport, art, science, or leisure. The AKA hosts events, competitions, workshops, and an annual convention. Its leadership, special awards, kite programs, and an online store are featured, along with membership benefits and information, events, kiting resources, and contact data.
https://www.kite.org/
After 26 years, the Drachen Foundation has retired. Its website is now a new entity with continued accessibility to the international history, aviation, culture, art, and recreation of kiting. It includes archival history, past programming, exhibitions, events, and publications. Stories of past kiting adventures are available here, along with information on kite basics, kite plans, kite building, history, cultures, science, sports, and the arts as they pertain to kites and kite flying.
https://drachenkite.com/
Stylized KiteLife, the website identifies itself as the first major electronic magazine (ezine) devoted to the kiting community. Created by the late Mike Gillard in 1998 to fill a void left by the demise of most of the greatest printed color magazines, the site features new and archived articles, reports, interviews, kite plans, an online discussion forum powered by Invision Community, a photo gallery where registered members can share photos, and an archive of video tutorials.
https://kitelife.com/
Kites for Peace is a global movement for social change that uses the arts, culture, and recreation as a friendly vehicle for positive social impact. It focuses on community initiatives and aims to unite communities across different causes, mainly humanitarian, in Zimbabwe. The movement teaches positive peace at the individual and community levels, emphasizing unity and compassion. A gallery of photographs, a blog, testimonials, partners, and contacts, along with a history of the program.
https://www.flykitesforpeace.com/
KONE is a kite club dedicated to sharing the joy of kiting across New England. They welcome kite flyers of all ages and host family-friendly events throughout the year. The organization holds monthly club fly events on the first Saturday of each month at various locations and indoor kite flying during the winter. Some members design and fly their own kites, while others use commercial ones. Its staff are introduced, along with a calendar of events, a photo gallery, and a shopping area.
https://www.kone.org/
National Kite Month is celebrated each April, during which people are encouraged to enjoy the art and joy of kite flying. The event was established by the American Kitefliers Association to promote the activity as a fun and educational activity. April was chosen because it symbolizes hope and renewal, making it the perfect time to take kites out into the spring breeze. People celebrate by flying kites, organizing kite festivals, and teaching others to make and fly kites.
https://www.nationalkitemonth.org/
An annual event since 1995, the Newport Kite Festival brings together kite enthusiasts to celebrate the artistry and excitement of kite flying. The Newport, Rhode Island, event allows guests to not only view the kites but also participate in interactive workshops and enjoy a range of family-friendly activities designed to inspire creativity and build community connections. The history of the event, schedules, sponsors, vendors, contacts, and videos are provided.
https://newportkitefestival.com/
The Virtual Kite Zoo is an online collection of kite designs, history, and construction plans. The website showcases a wide variety of kites, from traditional box kites to more elaborate aerial structures. The site provides sketches, descriptions, and links to building plans for various types of kites, as well as kite history, aerodynamics, and aesthetic design. Included is a guided tour of its content, with plans and photographs, and complete with a quiz at the end.
https://www.blueskylark.org/zoo/
Washington Kitefliers Association
The WKA is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the joy of kite flying. Founded in 1973, it is the oldest kite club in Washington State, and is affiliated with the American Kitefliers Association. The WKA hosts various events, including kite-making workshops, flying competitions, and community gatherings. Membership options, volunteer opportunities, a calendar of events, announcements, a gallery of photographs, and an online contact form are provided.
https://wka-kitefliers.org/
