American Kitefliers Association

It's not too early to start thinking about kite flying in the nation's capital.  Given the mild winter, the weather should be fantastic.  Although that has also resulted in the cherry blossoms being out in in full force now - so there will not be any at the end of the month.

The Blossom Kite Festival, previously named the Smithsonian Kite Festival, is an annual event that is traditionally a part of the festivities at the National Cherry Blossom Festival on the National Mall in Washington, DC. Kite enthusiasts show off their stunt skills and compete for awards in over 36 categories including aerodynamics, beauty, box, and funniest. Top prizes are given for the Theme Award, People’s Choice, Family Trophy, and Highest Overall Score. The Kite Festival is one of the most popular annual events in Washington, DC and features kite fliers from across the U.S. and the world. This year’s event has an international focus and the theme is “100 years of friendship,” encompassing 100 years of blossoms, Japan-US friendship and springtime in Washington, DC. The Japan Kite Association, represented by President Masaaki Modegi and Yoshizo Sakuraba will demonstrate Japanese woodblock printing and painting, and the art of Tsugaru kite flying.

Date and Time
March 31, 2012, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Location
On the grounds of the Washington Monument, Constitution Avenue & 17th Streets, NW Washington, DC. The most convenient Metro stations are Smithsonian and Federal Triangle.