Welcome back to a new week, folks. Today is, February 8 and we are celebrating a National Holiday that, to be honest, seems a little strange to be celebrating in the middle of winter, no matter what Punsxutaney Phil said last week. Don’t take it the way this sounds (or, perhaps, take this statement exactly as it sounds)… Go Fly a Kite! Because today, is National Kite Flying Day.

Welcome to Talkocast’s podcast, Everyday’s a Holiday - no really, it is!

Did you know that literally EVERY DAY is a holiday? I don’t know about you, but I love having a reason to celebrate everyday. Whether it’s your favorite food’s day,  or something else totally random, happy holiday to you!

Origins of this holiday are a little flighty, but it seems as though it may have originated in South America where kite festivals were held around this time of year. Which, would make much more sense as it’d be warm in South America in February.

Kites, were first used in ancient China by their military over 3,000 years ago, dating back to around 470 BC. There’s a lot of local lore about the origins of the kite, pointing to the way the wind affects the leaves fluttering on trees, and harnessing power in the sail of their boats. J

The earliest of kites were made from bamboo or reeds for the frame, with leaves, silk, and paper made the perfect sails. The lines were made from vines or braided fibers, and it became not just a military tool to guide ships or send messages, but for ceremonies providing offerings to the gods.

Did you know that the longest kite measured 3,394 feet? The fastest kite had a record speed of 120 mph, and the longest kite trip ever recorded was 180 hours STRAIGHT!

While most of you would need to bundle up in order to celebrate this holiday, it is a fun and colorful way to get outside.

Let’s go fly a kite, up to the highest height!

Happy Holiday everyone, and I’ll see you tomorrow.

https://todayaholiday.com/national-kite-flying-day/

Photo by Ana GG on Unsplash