Kite festivals are amazing events that celebrate the simple joys and beauty of flying kites. Illustrating the universal nature of kites are the annual festivals that are held all over the world.
These events attract thousands of people who come to watch or participate in this colorful and fun activity. And Kite festivals are not only entertaining, but they also educational, cultural, and even artistic. Many festivals showcase the diversity and creativity of kite makers and flyers, as well as the history and traditions of different regions and countries.
If you love kites, or are curious to learn more about them, you should definitely consider checking out some of the best kite festivals around the world. Adding an event such as these to your travel schedule will add some zest, and lots of memories Here are some of the best:
- Washington State International Kite Festival: This is one of the largest and most popular kite festivals in the USA. It takes place every year in August at the Long Beach Peninsula, Washington, home of the World Kite Museum. It lasts for a whole week, and features various competitions, workshops, demonstrations, and displays of kites of all shapes and sizes. You can see giant kites, stunt kites, fighting kites, artistic kites, and more. You can also join in the fun by flying your own kite, or making one at the festival.
- International Kite Festival in Gujarat: This is one of the most spectacular kite festivals in India. It takes place every year on January 14th, which is Makar Sankranti, a Hindu festival that marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn. It is a day of celebration and gratitude for the harvest and the sun. People fly kites from their rooftops, balconies, terraces, and fields, filling the sky with colorful and vibrant kites. Some of the kites are decorated with messages, symbols, or images. Some of them are also attached with strings coated with glass or metal, which are used to cut down other kites in a friendly competition.
- Festival of the Winds: This is one of the oldest and largest kite festivals in Australia. It takes place every September at the iconic Bondi Beach in Sydney. It attracts kite enthusiasts from all over the country and beyond, who come to display their skills and creativity with their kites. You can see kites of various designs, themes, and materials, such as animals, characters, abstract shapes, etc. You can also join the kite-making workshops, enjoy the live music and entertainment on stage, or sample some delicious food from different cuisines.
- Weifang International Kite Festival: This is one of the most prestigious kite festivals in China. It takes place every year in April at Weifang City in Shandong Province, which is considered to be the birthplace of kites. It draws kite lovers from more than 40 countries and regions, who come to compete for various awards and honors. The festival features a grand opening ceremony, a kite exhibition, a kite flying competition, a night kite flying show, a cultural exchange program, and more. You can admire some of the most exquisite and elaborate kites in the world, such as dragon kites, centipede kites, butterfly kites, etc.
Kite festivals often have a cultural component with traditions and themes woven into the kites by artisans. You can also see kites that are made of unusual materials, such as colorful hand made paper, fabrics or bamboo. Some kites are even animated, with moving parts or sound effects.
Kite festivals are also a great opportunity to learn new skills and make new friends. You can join workshops and demonstrations to learn how to make your own kite or how to fly it better. You can also participate in competitions and challenges to test your kite flying abilities. You can also meet other kite enthusiasts and share your passion and knowledge.
Kite festivals are a wonderful way to spend a day or a weekend. They are suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds. They are fun, colorful and inspiring. So what are you waiting for? Stop by Tumbleweeds & Tarantulas, or visit our online store, grab your kite and head to the nearest kite festival!
Written by Jim Hinckley of Jim Hinckley’s America
