As we all know, the Santa Maria Valley is a fabulous place to live, work and raise a family. This beautiful valley abounds with nature and easy living, and our gorgeous weather makes outdoor activities a major part of our daily lives. One of the great (or not, depending on your point of view) natural features is a lot of wind in the springtime, so last year the Discovery Museum decided to celebrate National Kite Month in April with a Family Kite Festival. Join the museum, and the city’s Parks and Recreation Department, at Rotary Centennial Park on April 17 to watch amazing kite flying, participate in kite games, and fly your own kite as a family.
Kites have a long and important history, and have been used by people as tools in communication, spirituality, and even scientific research for centuries. People have probably been using kites in China and other parts of Asia since at least 200 years B.C. (nationalkitemonth.org). They became popular in the West after Marco Polo helped bring Eastern influences to Europe and the rest of the world. The value of kites to teach about art, science, physical fitness, and the relationship of humans to their natural world can’t be underestimated. And let’s not forget how fun they are! Visit smvdiscoverymuseum.org for a list of great books on kites and for links to more information about kiting. Celebrate spring, and the great natural world we live in, by flying a kite this April.
Kelly White O’Neill is executive director of the Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum at 705 S. McClelland in Santa Maria. Discovery Corner is a weekly column in the Sun, highlighting events, science activities, and more. Send comments to discoverycorner@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Mar 31 – Apr 7, 2011.
