Bermuda Kites: A Colourful Easter Tradition

Whimsical kites play a deeply important role in Bermuda’s Easter celebrations, especially on Good Friday. Weaving through the air, these kites symbolise hope and renewal and reflect the island’s heritage. Families gather to make and fly these handmade kites, creating a beautiful display that reflects the spirit of Bermuda. Take part in this beloved tradition and other Easter Weekend customs.

The Art of Bermuda Kite Making

Skilled kitemakers craft their kites with locally sourced materials like bamboo, twine, and fabrics that reflect the island’s beauty. The natural landscapes and seascapes inspire the design of the kites.

A traditional kite features a narrow hexagon shape, crafted by joining three pine sticks at the centre. Other variations include octagons or decagons. At the heart of the kite, a headstick is attached at the centre and extends beyond the outline of the kite. A curved piece of bamboo is placed behind the headstick and a string is tied over the top and behind the headstick. The tail, made with strips of old bed sheets tied together and attached to the bottom of the kite, helps keep it upright to fly. Then “hummers” are glued to create the unique sound and add a finishing touch. 

A Sound Tradition: “Hummer” Kites

Most Bermuda kites are known for their vibrant colours and shapes, but some are known for their sounds. Hummers vibrate to create the distinctive whine of a Bermuda kite and add multi-pitched tones in the sky that can be heard from one end of the island to the other. Many would wake up on Good Friday and rush outside to see whose kite would be flying first and which one would be making the most noise.

The loudest kites with the highest pitch are even more prized than the beautifully coloured ones. Somerset kite makers are renowned for creating the loudest kites. The secret behind the legendary “hummer” continues to be one of the most guarded mysteries in the world of kitemaking.

Uplifting Families & Communities

Kitemaking and kite flying is more than just an activity – it’s a celebration that brings families and communities together. Many families started the tradition of making kites generations ago and now pass down the tradition to future generations. Every kite made can symbolise the unity and love of the person or group making the kite. 

“The Bermuda kite is more than a toy – it’s a symbol of tradition, craftsmanship, and island heritage, bringing families and communities together to celebrate in a uniquely Bermudian way.”

Families pass down stories and skills while crafting kites, and then they head outdoors to watch their kites take flight. During celebrations, especially Easter Weekend, this beloved tradition offers a chance to connect with each other and create memories that will be talked about for years to come. 

Make Your Own Bermuda Kite (or Buy One)

Immerse yourself in Easter weekend celebrations by participating in a kitemaking workshop. Learn the art of kitemaking with this hands-on experience, where you’ll be guided through every step.

You can also purchase a ready-made handcrafted kite from local shops like Flying Colours. Each kite reflects the island’s culture and creativity, making a kite the perfect one-of-a-kind Bermuda gift or souvenir.

Where to Witness Bermuda Kites in Action

Experience the magic of kite flying at Horseshoe Bay during Good Friday. Take part in this cultural celebration that has spanned more than four decades with fun activities, festive live entertainment, and chances to purchase or make your own Bermuda kite. People gather at other parks and beaches, but Horseshoe Bay is a hub of high-flying fun.

Later in April, see competition kites at the Bermuda Annual Agricultural Exhibition, also known as the “Ag Show.” Crowds up to 25,000 people flock to the Bermuda Botanical Gardens in Paget Parish to watch live entertainment and equestrian shows and indulge in delicious cuisine. It’s a must-see for anyone wanting a deeper dive into Bermuda’s captivating kite culture.