BERKELEY, Calif. — The last weekend of July brings a world of color down by the Berkeley Marina, where children, families and friends have been going on for more than 30 years to the Berkeley Kite Festival.
The day begins at 10 a.m. with a few kites, and kite enthusiasts finishing setting up. Within a couple of hours, the entire hill is covered with kite fliers and kite watchers. There are small kites, big kites and people of all ages enjoying the view.
“It really turns out here in Berkeley, like by noon everyone will have held a kit. Anyone can do it from 5 years old to over 80 years old,” John Barresi said, while continuing to fly and do tricks with his own kite.
He has been participating in the sport for more than 25 years, simply because “it’s relaxing.” He noted that when one is tense, the kite will be tense, too, but if the controller on the ground is relaxed, the kite flows more freely, which makes for a better time.
There are also kite ballets and competitions at the event for more organized entertainment. The festival brought thousands to Cesar E Chavez Park over two days. Remember to grab a kite and a sweater before you go next year.