International Kite Day – January 14, 2027

International Kite Day
Categories:
Tags:
ActivitiesHobbyIndian Holidays
Where:
International
Date change rule:
Every January 14
Holiday emoji:
🪁

International Kite Day takes flight every January 14, inviting enthusiasts worldwide to celebrate the ancient art of kite flying. This day, often coinciding with Makar Sankranti in India, fills the skies with vibrant colors and joyful competition. Grab your favorite kite, head outdoors, and join the global festivities!

Want to sponsor International Kite Day? Learn how

Expected International Kite Day Deals

While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that retailers often offer deals on kites and flying accessories. Look for discounts from major toy stores like Toys ‘R’ Us and outdoor recreation brands such as REI. Specialty kite shops like Into The Wind and Kite Connection typically feature sales on unique designs and high-performance models. Online marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay will also be popular spots for finding deals on a wide array of kites. Keep an eye out for local park events that might include giveaways or special offers from vendors. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as January 14 approaches.

Platform Guide for International Kite Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #InternationalKiteDay. Share vibrant photos and videos of your kites in flight, showcasing unique designs and beautiful skies.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #InternationalKiteDay. Film slow-motion videos of kites soaring, share tips for flying, or capture the excitement of a kite festival.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #InternationalKiteDay. Share real-time updates from local kite flying events, interesting facts about kites, or engage in discussions about the best flying spots.

Social Media Tips for International Kite Day

Individuals

Head to an open park or beach with your favorite kite. Challenge friends to a friendly flying competition or simply enjoy the tranquility of watching your kite dance in the wind.

Creators

Create a tutorial on how to build a simple kite, film a time-lapse of a kite festival, or interview local kite enthusiasts about their passion and unique designs.

Brands

Host a kite design contest with prizes, sponsor a local kite festival, or launch a limited-edition kite collection. Encourage user-generated content by inviting customers to share photos of their kites.

Top Brands for International Kite Day

  1. Into The Wind

    Founded in 1980 in Boulder, Colorado, Into The Wind is a premier retailer of high-quality kites, windsocks, and flying accessories. They are known for their extensive selection of unique and performance-oriented kites for all skill levels.

  2. Prism Kites

    Prism Kites, based in Seattle, Washington, has been designing and manufacturing precision sport kites and power kites since 1992. Their products are celebrated for their innovative designs, durable construction, and exceptional flying characteristics.

  3. HQ Kites & Designs

    A leading German manufacturer, HQ Kites & Designs has been producing a wide range of kites, from single-line recreational kites to sophisticated stunt and power kites, for decades. They are recognized globally for their quality and innovation in kite sports.

  4. REI

    Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI) is an American retail and outdoor recreation services corporation founded in 1938. While not exclusively a kite retailer, REI offers a selection of recreational kites and outdoor gear perfect for a day of kite flying.

  5. The Kite Connection

    Located in Huntington Beach, California, The Kite Connection has been a fixture in the kite community since 1980. They offer a vast array of kites, from beginner models to advanced sport kites, and are a hub for kite enthusiasts.

  6. Hobby Lobby

    Founded in 1972, Hobby Lobby is a privately held retail company offering arts, crafts, and home decor products. They often carry a selection of recreational kites and kite-making supplies, catering to DIY enthusiasts and families.

  7. Amazon

    Founded in 1994, Amazon is the world's largest online retailer, offering an unparalleled selection of products, including a vast array of kites from various manufacturers and brands. It serves as a global marketplace for kite enthusiasts.

International Kite Day Hero

George Pocock

George Pocock (1774–1843) was a British schoolmaster and inventor who made significant contributions to the practical application of kites. He is best known for developing the 'Charvolant,' a carriage propelled by kites, demonstrating the potential of kite power for transportation. His work highlighted the aerodynamic principles of kites and their utility beyond mere recreation.

History of International Kite Day

Originally, kite flying was a pastime reserved for royalty and the wealthy, but in recent years, it has evolved into a festival open to all, with participants hailing from Japan, Italy, the United Kingdom, Canada, China, Indonesia, Singapore, the United States, Malaysia, Australia, France, and Brazil.

International Kite Day originated in India, where it is most popularly observed in the city of Ahmedabad in the northern state of Gujarat. In Hindi, the festival is known as Uttarayan, while in other regions of India, it is known as Makar Sankranti.

It commemorates the transition from winter to summer, as well as the forthcoming winter crop harvest. People go from all over the world to participate in the festivities. The kites linked with the celebration represent the gods’ spirits waking from their winter slumber.

Simple kites made of lightweight colorful paper with bamboo frames are the most frequent. Aside from traditional kites, several feature Bollywood celebrities or social themes. Kite lines are frequently coated with a mixture of rice and crushed glass to aid in “kite fighting.” This is a game when kite fliers try to cut one another’s strings and knock down their kites during the festival.

During the day, acrobats perform, while at night, illuminated kites known as ‘tukkals’ fill the skies. The night sky is also lit up by fireworks. Although this is an Indian festival, Hindu temples in the United States frequently celebrate it, and because it is an inclusive celebration; anybody can participate.

International Kite Day timeline

28th Century B.C.
The First Kites are Made

It’s believed the kite is invented in China.

1700s
Kite Flying is Introduced in India

The popularity of kite flying in India peaks in Lucknow.

1752
A Kite Helps Prove Lightning is Electricity

Benjamin Franklin demonstrates that lightning is electricity with the aid of a kite.

1989
The First International Kite Day is Held

In 1989, the inaugural International Kite Festival was held, and individuals from all over the world came to show off their kites and flying skills.

International Kite Day FAQs

When is International Kite Day?

In 2027, International Kite Day is observed on Friday, January 14. It’s a perfect opportunity to enjoy the skies with colorful kites as the weekend approaches.

What is the history of kites?

The earliest kites were likely flat, rectangular designs made of silk and bamboo, used by the Chinese for practical purposes before their recreational and ceremonial value was discovered. Their journey across continents saw them adopted into various cultures, each adding unique designs and traditions to their use.

How many people fly kites?

Kite flying remains a popular pastime across all age groups, with estimates suggesting that tens of millions of kites are sold globally each year. Its accessibility and appeal as an outdoor activity contribute to its enduring popularity in diverse cultures.

What is Makar Sankranti and its connection to kites?

The connection between Makar Sankranti and kites is particularly strong in western India, especially Gujarat, where the skies become a canvas of colorful kites. This tradition is rooted in the belief that flying kites on this day brings good luck and signifies the arrival of longer days after the winter solstice.

How to Celebrate International Kite Day

  1. Attend the festival

    If you enjoy traveling and have the opportunity to be in Gujarat on January 14 for the actual event, attending would be the greatest way to commemorate International Kite Day. It will undoubtedly be an unforgettable experience that you will remember for the rest of your life.

  2. Get a kite and fly it!

    Simply buying a kite and taking it to a nearby park to fly it is a fantastic way to celebrate. A breezy day spent with a kite in hand is an immensely enjoyable experience.

  3. Learn or teach someone how to make kites

    Learn and train to fly kites in the sky. Teach someone how to make and decorate kites.

5 Facts About Kites That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Research assistant

    When the Wright brothers were developing the first airplane in the late 1800s, they studied kites.

  2. World record

    180 hours is the world record for the longest kite fly.

  3. Leafy kites

    Leaves were used to make the first kites, which were flown thousands of years ago.

  4. German paranoia

    Large kites were outlawed in East Germany due to the fear of people being lifted over the Berlin Wall.

  5. Flying couriers

    During the American Civil War, kites were utilized to carry mail and newspapers.

Why We Love International Kite Day

  1. Good food

    Food lovers have a soft spot for this holiday. The festival's various food kiosks provide traditional Gujarati cuisine for travelers to sample.

  2. It stimulates creativity

    It is a creative outlet as people try to make beautiful kite designs. Different design possibilities leave no limit to your imagination.

  3. Sharing and caring

    We get to share the holiday with people all over the world. We have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life through our shared passion for flying kites.

International Kite Day dates

Year Date Day
2027 January 14 Thursday
2028 January 14 Friday
2029 January 14 Sunday
2030 January 14 Monday
2031 January 14 Tuesday