Staten Island’s Kite Fest Lifts Off in Midland Beach

Midland Beach soared last night with Staten Island’s kite fest painting the sky over NYC. Flyer Jay Patel launched a dragon kite as 200 joined, strings taut in the March wind. It’s a borough blast—free entry, $10 kites sold out fast. Kids ran, tails flapping; a pro looped a stunt kite. ‘Staten flies high—this is it,’ Patel says, reeling line. The beach buzzed with color.

The fest’s new—first run, pulling families off the ferry by dusk. Patel’s a kite nerd; last night’s crowd doubled bets—50 kites up at once. A gust yanked a kid’s string; he chased it laughing. Vendors slung hot cocoa—$3, warming hands. #KiteSI trended; Manhattan’s missing out.

Some moaned—trash blew, and a tangled kite sparked a spat. Wind’s fickle—half crashed, but spirits held. A rival’s pitching a Tottenville fly-off, splitting airtime. Still, 300 stayed till dark—kites ruled. Midland’s sky is Staten’s now.

Patel’s eyeing monthly runs, maybe a glow kite night if cash flows. ‘NYC needs lift—this delivers,’ he says, packing his dragon. The fest’s a Staten win—wind meets whimsy. Midland Beach is airborne; grab a string. Fly it—spring’s here.