April 29, 2009 > High-flying fun at Annual Kite Day High-flying fun at Annual Kite Day By Suzanne Ortt Photos By courtesy of Dean Bradshaw Look up! Kites are dancing, kites are soaring, kites are bright colors against the blue sky. Picture this scene: children flying hand-decorated masterpieces, families strolling throughout the park, enjoying carnival games, inflatables, and an atmosphere of fun with drums reverberating in the background. Sunny skies dominate. The wind is blowing. Saturday, May 2, is Newark's 9th Annual Family Kite Day. Join in - last year an estimated 2,500 attended. Kite Day originated in 2000 and given Newark's reputation as the windiest city in the East Bay, it was a logical move. Free kites will be given to the first 300 children arriving, compliments of Hobby Town USA. More will be on sale. Kite decorating and flying, of course, are the day's highlights. All activities are free with the exception of a delicious outdoor BBQ and goodies sold at the Otter Alley Cafˇ; that is a paying proposition. Listen for the beat as Taiko drummers from Wadaiko Newark perform. See belly dancing and Polynesian dancers. This musical mix, organized by Terry Eustice, adds vivacity to the day. Kite flying is popular throughout the world, especially in Asia where the custom began more than 2,000 years ago. Although stories and legends of kites are plentiful this is a chance to create your own Kite Day tradition. Family Kite Day Saturday, May 2 Noon - 4 p.m. Sports Field Park, Silliman Activity Center 6800 Mowry Ave., Newark (510) 578-4620