The annual Parris Hill kite-flying event was held on Monday at the old Andrew’s Sugar Factory in St Joseph, a part of ongoing We Gatherin’ celebrations, where scores of people turned out despite intermittent rainfall.
Event coordinator Caresa Barnett said it was their second staging since the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The rain held us back a lot this year but people are trickling in as the day goes on. Last year the numbers were around 1 500 people in attendance as the grass is normally packed, but they are a little slight this year because of the weather. This resulted in a late start today as we normally start at 11 a.m., but we started at around 2 p.m.,” she said.
Vendors were spread across the grounds offering traditional Bajan dishes such as macaroni pie, rice and peas, fish cakes, and sno-cones.
A full entertainment package was also planned for patrons to enjoy.
“We’re having live performances which include the band Riteside Of Red, . . . Peter Ram, Mole and Jordan English,” Barnett said.
In terms of keeping the kite-flying tradition alive, she said the young people would play a key role.
“One thing we’ve done to keep the tradition alive is encourage as many young people to come and actually help out with the making of the kites. So, we try to encourage mostly youngsters in different communities to come out and help, whether it is cutting down the bamboo or pasting on the patterns for the kites,” she said.
Chairman of Parris Kite-Flyers, Neilo Mascoll, also spoke of the effort and dedication
put into kite-making.
“The kites are made from bamboo and plastic but the designs are not preset. After the kite’s very first groundwork is done, we sit down and have a discussion about which kite was designed the best.
“One of the things that I must say is that in previous years, we would get people who enter the kite-making and kite-flying competition. However, because of the rainy weather today, as well as limited wind, this process was daunted. We only have about four or five kites in the air at present,” he explained.
One of the young kite-flyers, Jahrose Puckerin, told the MIDWEEK NATION: “Last year it was a little bit better because there was more wind. It’s not really all that fun today, but it’s still pretty exciting to be here.”
Rodney Moore, a first-time attendee and father of two, was excited to spend time and bond with his children Ronagi and Ronazia Kirton-Moore.
“I love kite-flying and I always fly kites across the island during this time of year. I love to see when they’re up there and getting on bad,” he said. (CS)
