Spring Is in the Air!
Photo from https://worldwidevillage.org/
Easter in Haiti is a time of celebration, reflection, and joy. One of the most beloved traditions of the season is kite flying, a vibrant and creative activity that brings communities together in a spectacular display of color and craftsmanship.
Kite flying is not just a pastime in Haiti—it is a deeply rooted tradition. Beautifully colored paper kites are sold in markets, but for many children, creating their own kites from available materials is part of the fun. A common Haitian saying, "Degagé," meaning to make do with what you have, perfectly embodies the spirit of this tradition. Children use plastic bags, old tarps, and sticks to craft their own flying masterpieces.
The most common kite design is hexagonal, using a three-stick crossed frame with a bowed stick across the top. Traditional materials also include paper packaging or plastic sheeting for the sail, and white sap from the candelabra plant for glue. Larger kites, flown mainly by adults, use thicker wooden poles and can reach impressive sizes.
Some regions of Haiti even host kite contests, where prizes are awarded for the highest-flying kite or the most creatively designed one. Communities come together in open fields, and in Port-au-Prince, where open spaces are scarce, families take to their rooftops to fly kites.
Photo from https://worldwidevillage.org/
This particular Easter tradition is more than just an enjoyable activity; it is a celebration of resilience, resourcefulness, and creativity. Whether flying kites from rooftops or open fields, Haitians of all ages embrace the joy of watching their handmade creations dance in the sky, a beautiful symbol of hope and freedom.
You can make your own paper bag kite! Visit https://worldwidevillage.org/easter-kites/ for instructions.
*All information in this article was sourced from https://haitiantimes.com/2021/12/24/haitian-christmas-traditions-how-to-make-a-kite-in-5-easy-steps/, https://worldwidevillage.org/easter-kites/, and https://drachenkite.com/article/memories-of-kiteflying-in-port-au-prince/