International Kite Day is a holiday that originated in the northwestern state of Gujarat, India, but is now widely celebrated not only in the city of Ahmedabad but also across the world. This day has historically been one that celebrates the harvest of winter crops in India and looks forward to the upcoming spring and summer months.

During this day, people make and fly kites, which is especially true in India where the festival symbolizes the awakening of the gods from their winter slumber. All over Ahmedabad, people fly kites from their rooftops, as well as during the main riverfront festival.

The History of International Kite Day

Although the origins of kite-making have been lost to history, many historians believe that kites have been made and flown for at least 2,000 years. Kites most likely originated in China, and there is even a Chinese legend that says the first kite was invented after a farmer tied his hat with a string to keep it from blowing away, but instead, he inadvertently created the first kite.

In India, kite flying has been around for about 500-600 years. Kite Day was first celebrated in Gujarat, India, where people began not only making their own kites but also flying them.

This holiday is accompanied by a kite festival, known as Uttarayan in Hindu, which celebrates the end of winter and the beginning of summer, as well as the upcoming harvest season. Each kite used is symbolic of the spirits of the gods awakening from their winter slumber.

Until very recently, kite flying was an activity practiced only by the wealthy. Fortunately, the festival has been observed by an increasing number of people across various social and economic strata.

People from all over the world visit India to participate in the kite flying festival, and it is not uncommon to see individuals from Australia, Brazil, Canada, the United States, France, Singapore, and China attending the festival.

Observing International Kite Day

For International Kite Day, India is the place to be to take part in the kite festival. Of course, since many people cannot participate in such activities, they can always organize their own kite festival in their hometown.

Sure, in some parts of the world, this day is very cold, but that shouldn’t stop anyone from having a good time with their kite. After all, this is an international event. People can also spread the word about this holiday around the world simply by using the hashtag #InternationalKiteDay. Now, go fly a kite and have some fun!