Kite Flying at Regent Village 2025

Celebrating a timeless Easter tradition through community, creativity, and culture.

A Tradition Rooted in History

Kite flying has long been an important part of Easter celebrations in Sierra Leone, especially in Regent Village. While the exact origin of kite flying in Sierra Leone is not known, history shows that kites were first developed in Asia and widely used in China as early as the 6th century CE. Over time, kites grew from military tools to objects used for festivals, ceremonies, and joyous celebrations.

In Regent Village during the 1960s and 70s, Easter kite flying became a cherished tradition. As soon as Ash Wednesday passed, adults and young boys began preparing their kites for Easter Monday. Many viewed kite flying as a symbolic celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, an uplifting expression of joy and renewal.

Local kites were made from whatever materials could be found: brown paper, newspaper, plastic sheets, and colorful kite paper bought from Big Market in Freetown. Bamboo served as the ideal frame for its strength, while cane thread provided durability against the strong Easter winds.

On Easter Monday, the skies above Regent Village came alive with kites of all shapes and colors, the “Battie,” the “Fishie,” the “Hog Nose,” and more. These bright designs decorated the sky and united the entire village in celebration.

The Revival of a Beloved Tradition (2021–Present)

In recent years, access to certain materials, especially colorful kite paper and cane thread, became limited, causing the tradition to fade. But thanks to the passion and commitment of Uncle Radcliffe Akhi-Gbade, his daughter Afua, and a group of local volunteers, the St. Charles Kite Organisation was formed in 2021 with a clear mission: to revive and preserve the joy of kite flying in Regent Village.

Their motto, “Soar to the Heavens,” reflects the spirit of this revival.

Since 2021, the organization has hosted exciting annual kite flying competitions with growing community involvement and support. Each year continues to build on the last, keeping the tradition alive for a new generation.

2025 St. Charles Kite Flying Champions

🏆 2025 Winners
• Junior Category: John Sesay
• Senior Category: Winston Harding
• Parish Category: Pazia Knox-Goba

These three champions brought great skill, creativity, and joyful energy to this year’s celebration. Their winning kites soared high above Regent Village and inspired everyone who attended.

Special Thanks:
The St. Charles Kite Organisation, community volunteers, families, and participants who continue to keep this tradition alive.

Historical Content Prepared By:
Arthur H. C. Kwesi-John – Regent Village

Children and families gather in the courtyard of Regent Village watching the 2025 St. Charles Kite Flying Competition.
Community members gather outside the church in Regent Village as colorful kites soar during the 2025 kite flying event.
Volunteers and participants prepare tables inside the Regent Village hall during the St. Charles Kite Flying event.
Families and participants organize kite materials inside the village hall before the competition begins.
The official trophy for the 2025 St. Charles Kite Flying Competition proudly displayed at Regent Village.
Participants gather inside the Regent Village hall during the 2025 St. Charles Kite Flying festivities.
A wide view of the open field in Regent Village filled with children, families, and colorful kites soaring during the 2025 St. Charles Kite Flying Competition.
A busy preparation scene inside the Regent Village community hall as teams get ready for the 2025 kite competition.
The three champions of the 2025 St. Charles Kite Flying Competition—Junior, Senior, and Parish winners—celebrate together after receiving their awards in Regent Village.