3 Ways to Celebrate National Kite Month
April is here, and with it comes National Kite Month, a time to revel in the simple joy of watching colorful kites dance across the sky. Organized by the American Kitefliers Association and celebrated by enthusiasts nationwide, this monthlong event aims to spread the excitement of kite flying and reconnect people with the thrill of outdoor recreation.
Photo Provided: Hoosier Kitefliers Society
At The Kokomo Post, we’re believers in embracing activities that bring families together and foster a love for the great outdoors. That’s why we’re diving headfirst into the world of kite flying, a pastime that is timeless. To guide us through the festivities, we caught up with local kite enthusiast Mike Bragg, affectionately known as the “Kite Man.” (Also, fans of the Post might recognize the last name. Bragg is the grandfather of TKP producer Bree Bragg.)
For more than three decades, Mike has been spreading his passion for kites across Indiana and beyond as a member of the Hoosier Kitefliers Society since joining in 1987. From hosting workshops, participating in kite-flying competitions, having a hand in extravagant kite displays in museums and hosting convocations at local schools teaching the art of kite flying and kite safety, Mike has been dedicated to sharing the wonders of kite flying with both young and old alike.
So, how can you celebrate National Kite Month? Mike shared three ways to get in on the fun:
TKP Staff Photo
Fly a Kite: It may sound simple, but there’s no denying the sheer delight of launching a kite into the sky. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the hobby, there’s something magical about feeling the tug of the wind as your kite takes flight. Head to your local park or open field, like Jackson Morrow Park here in Kokomo, and let your kite soar.
“Why fly a kite? Because it’s fun!” said Mike. Who couldn't use a little more fun in their life? Mike went on to say that it’s a great excuse to get outside to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine.
TKP Staff Photo
2. Build Your Own Kite: Unleash your creativity by crafting your very own kite. With just a few inexpensive supplies and a bit of guidance, you can construct a kite of your very own. While traditional diamond kites are the most recognizable and iconic, Mike said they are actual quite hard to fly and suggests trying your hand at building a sled kite, a design known for its simplicity and ease of use. The sled kite was designed by Frank Scott in the 1960s, an Ohio native who was a grandpa on the search for a kite design suitable and easy for his grandkids to fly. The sled kite design is used for all of the Hoosier Kitefliers Society workshops because it is in fact, the perfect design for kite fliers of all abilities. Want to learn how to build your very own sled kite? Mike and the Hoosier Kitefliers Society will host a Kite Making Workshop on June 8 at Kirkendall Nature Center at Jackson Morrow Park, where you’ll learn to craft your own sled kite from scratch. You can learn about this event by clicking here.
For more advanced kite making plans and tutorials from The American Kitefliers Association, click here
TKP Staff Photo
3. Share the Joy: Pass on your passion for kite flying by teaching someone else how to fly. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or a novice enthusiast, there’s no greater pleasure than seeing the smile on someone's face as they experience the thrill of kite flying for the first time. So grab a friend, a family member, or a curious bystander and take to the skies together. After all, the more, the merrier!
To stay updated with Hoosier Kitefliers Society events, kite flies and workshops, click here.
As we celebrate National Kite Month, let’s embrace the simple pleasures that come from spending time outdoors, connecting with loved ones, and experiencing the pure, unadulterated joy of flying a kite. So, grab your kite, head outside, and take flight. After all, there’s no better time to go fly a kite than right now.
