I read this great posting on neighborhood notes from Nancy. I love walking around the Chinese Gardens on nice sunny day. Thanks again Nancy for keeping so many families in our area busy. We appreciate your work 
Kite Exhibit at Portland Classical Chinese Garden
by nancy
Portland Classical Chinese Garden email regarding their current ‘Colorful Kites of China’ Exhibit.
A rare and authentic collection of more than 40 Chinese kites will be on display throughout the Portland Chinese Garden, as part of the Colorful Kites of China exhibit and activities celebrating the rebirth of spring time in the Garden.
The kite collection is the result of 17 years travel and kite learning by Bob and Charmayne Umbowers of Gig Harbor, WA. The kites represent the work of great Chinese kite builders, some who are no longer living, and also the work of contemporary kite designers and builders. The collection features kites of all sizes/colors and in shapes that communicate auspicious meanings–butterflies, dragonflies and flowers signifying harmony; cranes, peaches and tortoises representing long life.
Kites making and flying are an integral part of Chinese history and culture. The earliest written account of kite flying occurred in 200 B.C., when a Chinese general flew a kite over the walls of a city to estimate how far his army would have to tunnel to reach opposing soldiers. It is customary during the spring festival of Qingming for people to visit family graves to pay their respect and then celebrate rebirth by sailing their kites skyward.
For more information on the Colorful Kites of China Exhibit including family activities, visit the Garden’s website at www.portlandchinesegarden.org.
Colorful Kites of China Family Weekend
On the weekend of April 18 & 19, the Garden will be filled with kite enthusiasts as the World Kite Museum & Hall of Fame will offer lectures workshops on kite making and decoration. Fun for the whole family, kids can make their own kites to fly at home!
Saturday, April 18
11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Kite Making by World Kite Museum
12:00 p.m. Lecture on Kite Decoration by World Kite Museum
2:00 p.m. Lecture on Kite Decoration by World Kite Museum
3:00 p.m. Portland Chinese School Yo-Yo Team and Folk Dance Group
4:00 p.m. Lecture on Kite Decoration by World Kite Museum
Sunday, April 19
11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Kite Making by World Kite Museum
12:00 p.m. Lecture on Kite Decoration by World Kite Museum
2:00 p.m. Lecture on Kite Decoration by World Kite Museum
All activities free with Garden admission or membership.
