Releasing kites into the billowing cool winds of fall is the most popular part of Double Ninth Day. There is a Chinese saying that, "On the ninth day of the ninth moon, the howl of the wind fills the sky," due to the strong northeasterly winds that buffet Taiwan starting in September, creating ideal conditions for flying kites. With one person holding the string and the other holding the kite, it is relatively easy to get a kite sky-bound. But to send it soaring to distant heights, well that is another matter involving skill and experience!

In addition to flying their kites high and far, kite-fliers will often play a game called "Kite Biting" in which participants try to "bite" down the other kites by snapping their strings. The winner of the competition is the one with the last kite still in the air. In a separate competition, players vie to see whose kite can soar the highest and longest.

Chinese kites come in a variety of different and colorful forms, ranging from simple square kites to elaborate five or six meter long centipede and dragon kites, and are even decorated with the popular cartoon characters; each vying with the other in beauty and fascination.

From a viewpoint, kite-flying is an economical and convenient activity that parents and children can enjoy together, not just in September, but on any weekend or holiday, as the host of kites seen soaring above the neighborhood parks around Taiwan will readily attest to. From the construction of hand-made kites to their release into the sky, kites are enjoyed by the whole family.

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