Photo Courtesy of Miami-Dade County

 

MIAMI — A sea of kites will be soaring in the skies over Haulover Beach Park, on for the park’s 23rd annual “Kite Day.” This family-style event, presented by the Miami-Dade County Parks, Recreation and Open Spaces Department and Skyward Kites, will feature free kiting activities for all ages, such as kite-building classes, kite-flying demonstrations and all sorts of kite competitions.

Expect to see a return of the “monster kites”, including a 100-foot squid, a 30-foot scuba man, a 30-foot “Nemo” fish, and more. The event takes place Sunday, Feb. 15 from noon to 5 p.m. at the park, 10800 Collins Ave. in Miami.

There will also be food and refreshments for purchase and a live concert by Miami Country Day School’s “21 Hearts, 1 Beat” Rock Ensemble.  Event admission is free and parking is $7.

Prize categories for the kite competitions run the gamut from the highest-flying and most-unusual kites to the best homemade kite and the kite with the longest tail. There is no limit to the size or type of kites. Traditional kites of other countries are welcome, as a way to celebrate the unique cultural diversity of South Florida.  Folks have the option of bringing their favorite kite from home, making one at the event for free, or purchasing an already-made kite at the on-site kite store. There is no cost to participate in the kite competitions and registration is on-site.

Recognized as one of the best places for people to fly kites in South Florida, the open space and fresh ocean breezes of Haulover Park make it the ideal location for Skyward Kites.  Skyward Kites’ kite shop has operated out of Haulover Park for 23 years and boasts the largest selection of kites, windsocks and wind spinners in Miami, from diamonds and deltas to Para-foils and box varieties.  They are open 364-days a year (Closed Christmas Day), from 10 a.m. till sunset, with free parking for kite shop patrons. They offer kiting activities year-round, including kiting parties for birthdays or any occasion. Skyward Kites, a partner-vendor of Miami-Dade County Parks, is just one example of the variety of programs and activities offered throughout the diverse Miami-Dade County Parks system.

Kite Day patrons are advised that glass bottles and pets will not be allowed. Shoes with socks are recommended for individuals participating in open field activities. Those who prefer to sit and watch the festivities may bring along a blanket.

For more information about Kite Day, contact Dan Ward at Skyward Kites, 305-893-0906. For the park office, call 305-947-3525.