VACATIONS MADE EASY : DESTINATIONS : WASHINGTON DC : EVENT CALENDAR

The Smithsonian Kite Festival at the National Mall in Washington DC

Thousands of kite enthusiasts fly their unique creations on the National Mall grounds and compete for ribbons and prizes at the Smithsonian Kite Festival.

Showing up at the Mall with your kite to register, and then start flying. This year is SKF's 40th anniversary, and the theme is the 1960s. Organizers are challenging participants to create the grooviest, most far-out kites in the world. Also unique about this year are hands-on activities led by representatives from kite organizations. For example, you can learn about kite flying, help make a kite, and learn about the history of kites and the Smithsonian Kite Festival.

The are three competitions at the festival: the handmade kite competition. A rokkaku kite battle, and the Hot Tricks competition, which is limited to eight competitors. Kite flyers strut their stuff on the field while dazzling the crowd with trick kite moves. Awards are given in over 36 categories. Organized by The Smithsonian Associates, The Smithsonian Kite Festival takes place during the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival, making it the perfect time to fly your family into Washington DC.

This is a great adventure for the whole family, and there are many hotels to choose from in Washington D.C. that strive to fulfill Mom, Dad, and the children's needs. For instance, the Beacon Hotel, the President Hotel, The Red Roof Inn, the Capitol Hilton, The Ritz Carlton, and Days Inn Conneticut Avenue are just a few hotels in the downtown DC area, located within minutes of The Smithsonian Museum.