Get set to feel the wind in your face, the line in your hand, and the liberating feeling one gets when flying a kite. It’s National Kite-Flying Day after all. Did you know kites have a lot to do with lift, thrust, drag, and wind pressure? Probably not. It’s ok. On February 8 simply grab a kite and some string to get started. Then, find an open field, start running, and hope for the best. Oh, and pray for wind.
National Kite-Flying Day timeline
The Italian explorer brought a Chinese kite back to Italy.
Benjamin Franklin used a kite to demonstrate the electrical nature of lighting.
Kites were used throughout this century for scientific research.
Author Khaled Hosseini publishes one of the most popular modern novels of current times, The Kite Runner.
National Kite-Flying Day Activities
Go fly a kite (naturally)
Make sure to share your kite-flying experience on social media using the hashtag #NationalKiteFlyingDay.
Watch "Mary Poppins"
The song "Let's Go Fly a Kite" comes at the end of the film when George Banks discovers what's really important in life.
Throw a make-your-own-kite party
Buy the necessities: wooden sticks, paper, plastic or fabric, glue, and string. Also get some fun decorations like glitter, ribbons, and stickers. When the kite-making is over, gather everyone outside and let their creations fly.
4 Fantastic Kite Facts
The longest kite
It measured a whopping 3,394 feet.
The fastest kite
A kite was recorded flying at a speed of 120 mph.
The longest kite trip
A kite once flew for 180 hours straight
The most kites
A Japanese kite-maker reportedly flew 11,284 kites on a single line — the largest number recorded thus far.
Why We Love National Kite-Flying Day
Kids love kites
For kids, flying a colorful, decorative kite through the air is magical. It’s also a great opportunity for you to teach them a little about the science behind it all. Assuming, of course, that you have a good understanding yourself!
It gets people outside
Yes, we know, it's cold out. Still, head to your favorite kite-flying area prepared with layers of sweaters, jackets, scarves, gloves, and hand warmers. Then, it's hot chocolate for everyone.
It makes us nostalgic
Longing for simpler times? Put down that phone! Kite-flying takes you back to another era.
National Kite-Flying Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | February 8 | Saturday |
2026 | February 8 | Sunday |
2027 | February 8 | Monday |
2028 | February 8 | Tuesday |
2029 | February 8 | Thursday |