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- Arts & Entertainment
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- ActivitiesHobbySports
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- United States
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- Every April
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National Kite Month takes flight throughout April each year, inviting everyone to experience the simple joy and artistry of kite flying. This month celebrates the vibrant community of kite enthusiasts, from casual fliers to competitive aerial artists. Grab a kite, find an open field, and let your spirit soar with the wind!
Want to sponsor National Kite Month? Learn how
Expected National Kite Month Deals
As National Kite Month unfolds throughout April, expect retailers to offer enticing promotions on all things kite-related. While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that stores like Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Amazon often feature discounts on various kite designs, from simple delta kites to intricate box kites and stunt kites. Outdoor gear specialists such as REI and Dick’s Sporting Goods may highlight wind-friendly apparel and accessories suitable for a day at the park. Look for specialty kite shops like Into The Wind and KiteSite to showcase new models and offer bundles. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as April approaches.
Platform Guide for National Kite Month
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalKiteMonth. Share vibrant photos and short videos of your kites soaring against blue skies or unique kite designs.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalKiteMonth. Film creative transitions, kite-flying tutorials, or mesmerizing aerial shots set to trending sounds.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalKiteMonth. Share local kite festival events, community meetups, or tips for beginners.
National Kite Month Hero
George Cayley
History of National Kite Month
National Kite Month is organized yearly by the American Kitefliers Association (A.K.A.).
It was founded by the late Robert M. Ingraham of New Mexico in 1964. Being the largest association of kite fliers, the A.K.A. currently has thousands of members in over 25 countries.
The origin of kites has not been fully established, but it is speculated that they were first invented in China since kite flying was first mentioned in 200 B.C. in the Han Dynasty when Chinese General Han Xin flew a kite to evaluate his army’s defense strategy.
Kite flying was further developed by Chinese philosopher Motse until this novel pursuit spread to other regions, with each region developing a distinctive style for its kites. Sailors from Japan brought kites back to Europe in the late 17th century; this, however, had little impact on European culture. Over the years that followed, kites were regarded as objects of scientific research and advancement, rather than mere curiosity.
However, in the 1800s, as successive experiments led to the rapid development of mechanically powered aircraft, this diminished people’s interest in kites — they were flown only for recreation.
History tells us that kites (aside from being a form of recreation) have been used for diverse purposes. They were once used by the military for defense, attack, and surveillance. They were also used for scientific purposes, such as in Benjamin Franklin’s famous experiment proving that lightning is electricity.
Recognizing that kite flying is worthwhile and pleasurable, the A.K.A. is dedicated to “sharing the joy of kites through education in the art, science, and practice of making and flying kites safely.”
National Kite Month timeline
The kite is claimed as the invention of Chinese philosophers Motse and Lu Ban.
Marco Polo brings the first stories about kites to Europe while physical evidence is brought back by sailors.
Kites influence research and development efforts in building the first airplane.
Kites become famous for scientific experiments in diverse fields of study.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Kite Month
Local businesses can embrace National Kite Month by hosting community kite-flying events in nearby parks or open spaces. Toy stores and hobby shops can offer discounts on kites and kite-making kits, perhaps even organizing a workshop. Cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating can create ‘fly-in’ specials for families returning from kite sessions. Consider partnering with local schools for an educational segment on the science of flight, making it a month of engaging aerial fun for everyone.
National Kite Month FAQs
When is National Kite Month?
In 2027, National Kite Month also takes place throughout April, from Thursday, April 1, to Friday, April 30. This annual observance encourages everyone to experience the joy of kite flying.
How many people fly kites?
Kite flying continues to be a beloved activity across generations and cultures. Surveys suggest that a significant portion of the population has flown a kite at some point, with interest seeing renewed surges due to viral social media content and a desire for outdoor activities.
What is the history of kites?
The earliest known kites were flat, rectangular designs made from silk and bamboo. Over centuries, their purpose evolved from practical applications like fishing and warfare to scientific experimentation and, eventually, a popular recreational sport and art form. Today, kites are celebrated for their cultural heritage and diverse designs.
What are the different types of kites?
Beyond the traditional single-line designs, modern kite technology has introduced specialized kites for specific purposes. Foil kites, for instance, are soft, ram-air inflated kites used in kiteboarding and power kiting. Cellular kites, like the Cody kite, are known for their complex, multi-celled structures and impressive lift.
National Kite Month Activities
Attend a kite festival
The sky is one of the most impressive sights to behold. This month is the perfect opportunity to find and attend amazing kite festivals.
Make your own kite
Engage your kids or invite your friends and family to a kite-making workshop. Or you may simply ask them to help you make a kite.
Join the community
You can celebrate by joining the kite-flying community through social media and blog subscriptions. This is a day to increase your knowledge about kites, pick up tips, and read amazing stories of people passionate about kite-flying.
5 Fun Facts About Kites
Kite-flying was once banned
In Japan, flying kites was once preferred over work, and the former had to be banned.
A Japanese flew the most kites
A Japanese kite maker holds the record for flying the largest number of kites on a single line: 11,284.
There’s a record of the longest kite
The longest kite in the world measures 3,392 feet.
It’s a competitive sport
Kite flying in Thailand has been turned into a competitive sport of “kite fighting” with about 78 rules.
Kites were flown years ago
History records that the first kites were flown more than 3,000 years ago.
Why We Love National Kite Month
It’s a beautiful outdoor experience
Kite flying is a peaceful pastime. It is also a wonderful excuse to feel the outdoors and enjoy the weather without having to travel far.
It gives us time for family
Flying kites gives family members the chance to bond with each other. They may attend kite festivals or fly their own kites near where they live.
It gives us a sense of belonging
Being part of a creative group of individuals who shares the same passion is uplifting. This month gives all kite fliers a sense that they belong.
Social Media Tips for National Kite Month
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