The DC Traveler

Oh…Go Fly a Kite!!

by Jon on March 16th, 2007

Kites…kites everywhere.

With Spring in bloom (although you wouldn’t know it based on today’s weather), it’s time to grab your kite and twine and come to the 41st Annual Smithsonian Kite Festival being held on the grounds surrounding the Washington Monument.

The theme this year is “Japan WOW!” So flying dragons, giant sea creatures, Godzilla and perhaps even a piece or two of flying sushi might make an appearance.

It’s up to your imagination. This is a great family event and also fun for lovers to toss a blanket, bring a picnic, hold hands and watch the kites dance in motion.

There are some rules if you want to fly a kite, including the next bit of information that is a bit unique, but due post-911 air-space restrictions around the National Mall, the FAA has a policy for any kite that weighs over 5 lbs. It cannot be flown more than 500 feet above the ground, without prior FAA authorization. (I’m not sure how you actually get FAA authorization.) And if the President’s helicopter flies by, all kites must be immediately pulled down.

41st Annual Smithsonian Kite Festival
Washington Monument Constitution Ave.  between 15th and 17th NW
Washington, DC

Date & Time - Saturday, March 31st (raindate – Sunday April 1st)

Opening ceremony and registration 10:00 a.m., competitions run from 10:30 until 2:00 p.m., with a Hot Trick Showdown competition starting at 2:00 p.m. as well as the Rokkaku Challenge, in which Japanese-style kites battle for sole domination of the sky. The awards ceremony begins at 4:00 p.m.

Don’t miss the Japanese Taiko drummers that will be performing at the Opening Ceremony.

Admission – admission and participation is free, just bring your handmade kite.

Nearest Metro subway station – Federal Triangle or Smithsonian – Orange or Blue lines

Photo credits: festival winner photo courtesy of Smithsonian Kite Festival, all others Flickr.

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POSTED IN: Events, Family Fun, Great Places to Unwind, Just a Bit Weird - Fun & Quirky Places, People Watching