National Kite Flying Day is a holiday observed on February 8th every year and is designed as a way to encourage people to get out there and enjoy the process of flying a kite.

Although kite flying is generally regarded as an activity done by children, the fact of the matter is that adults have been flying kites for well over 11,000 years. So, buy or make a kite and then get those kites flying high on this day. After all, making and flying kites can be a lot of fun.

The History of Kites

We were, unfortunately, unable to uncover the history of National Kite Flying Day, so we’ve decided to go ahead and talk about the history of kites instead. Historians have traced kites all the way back to Asia—sometime around 9,500 BC. There are even cave paintings on Muna Island, Indonesia, that depict the use of a kite known as a Kaghati.

Of course, as is the case with just about all inventions, there is some dispute as to who actually invented the kite. The Chinese philosopher Mozi is also claimed to have invented the kite in the 5th century BC. Regardless of who invented it, however, it turned out to be a much-appreciated invention.

Facts About Kites

During the course of our research, we’ve come across some interesting facts about kites. Facts that we would like to share with all of you right now.

• Kites were used during the Civil War to deliver newspapers.
• The world’s longest kite flight lasted approximately 180 hours.
• The longest kite in the world is 3,394 feet.
• The fastest recorded kite speed is 120 miles per hour.
• The highest that a kite has flown is over 12,400 feet.
• Thai kite fighting includes 78 different rules.
• Each year, there are approximately 12 kite-related deaths.
• There are Japanese kites that weigh over 2 tons.

Kite Safety Tips

We also wanted to go over some safety tips. Although flying a kite can be a lot of fun, it can be extremely dangerous if the person flying the kite isn’t careful about where and how they fly it. That’s why we’ve decided it was worth it to list some kite safety tips so everyone can fly their kites safely.

• Don’t fly kites near airports or electrical power lines.
• Don’t fly kites in heavy winds.
• Don’t fly them close to roads.
• Make sure there are no holes or rocks in your path before flying the kite.
• Don’t fly them during storms.
• Don’t fly them near other people.
• Abandon kites that are unsafe to retrieve.

Observing National Kite Flying Day

The best way to celebrate this holiday is by taking your favorite kite outdoors and flying it. If the weather isn’t suitable for flying, then instead, make your own kite at home. While you’re doing this, make sure that you use the hashtag #NationalKiteFlyingDay so everyone can join in on the fun.