Thousands of Guyanese yesterday celebrated Easter Monday in the traditional way, flying kites in the wide open spaces along coastal Guyana.The key spot in the capital, Georgetown, which has over the years attracted the multitudes, is the National Park on Carifesta Avenue. This year was no different as thousands of people converged there to spend time with their families and of course to raise their kites.

As early as 2:00pm, the sky above the National Park had been transformed into a kaleidoscope as persons used every possible space to add another kite to the thousands already dancing in the skies.
Kites in all colours, sizes and shapes were in the air, as gleeful children held onto their balls of twine yesterday at the National Park. Several children took time to speak to the Guyana Chronicle, expressing their satisfaction at the event; and they seemed to be having a good time.
From children raising their own kites to parents helping them, the atmosphere facilitated displays of affection and togetherness which parents were obviously eager to express to their children.
It was evident that much preparation was invested in the day’s activities, seeing the large tables lined with trays of food and snacks and large coolers with beverages of all sorts.
Vehicles, bordering the road along the National Park, were not only used to store food but acted as stereo systems, blaring music for those who couldn’t resist a Soca rhythm or a hot chutney tune.
The traditional practice of some families taking their hammocks there to rest during the day was not neglected. Those who didn’t have hammocks rested under trees, lying on blankets, their stomachs satiated with good food and copious drinks. The day appeared to be a fun-filled one for all those in attendance.
In the afternoon there was a small turnout at the seawall which has been considered the “top spot” by many who use the venue to raise their kites because of the ocean breeze sweeping the shores of Guyana. However hundreds of persons were expected to venture there during the late afternoon and evening.
There were families however, who had already constructed tents along the seawalls with the intention of marking their picnic territory for the day.
Speaking with a young lad who seemed disgruntled because his kite wouldn’t go up, he said, “I ain’t happy right now. I been trying long to put up my kite man and it hard cause breeze barely blowing. But it gonna pick up just now.”
His kite finally got the boost it needed and lifted slowly into the skies. A now happy youth shouted, “It’s finally up”.

By Ravin Singh