What is National Kite Flying Day?
National Kite Flying Day, which is celebrated annually on February 8th, encourages kite flying and making. Enthusiasts around the country commemorate the day by launching their kites or making reservations to attend festivals.
Kites date back to China in 470 B.C., and China is brimming with lore and history of the kite. Many of the trees' leaves are related to the way wind affects the leaves on the trees, the shelters they lived in, blowing away the sails on their ships, and the hats they wore on their heads. Kites can also be used to spy on their enemies or send emails, according to the stories.
The people of the South Sea Islands were using kites for fishing at the same time as Chinese people, according to evidence.
Early kites were made from bamboo or strong reeds for framing. Ideal sails were made of leaves, silk, or paper. Vines or braided fabrics completed the line or tether. Although people initially used kites as tools, they also used them for ceremonial reasons as well. Kites had a symbolic place in the culture whether they sent messages into the heavens or to lift offerings up to the gods.
Today kites are both as hobbies and for outdoor fun. They range from simple diamond kites to more advanced box kites and giant sled kites. The kite's, also known as sport kites, are made so the operator can maneuver the kite into dips, twists, and dives with dramatic effect.
