High-flying fun is back for 2022 on Saturday, April 2, when the annual Whitewater Mesa Fun Kite Flying Picnic returns to the wide-open spaces on the mesa north of Glenwood.
Due to the pandemic, the event was last held in 2019. This is an outdoor event in plenty of wind.
Hundreds of people of all ages participate in this colorful, family-friendly event. It is sanctioned by the American Kitefliers Association, so kite-fliers come from all around the state and around the country to show off their spectacular creations.
Expected to return this year is Deb Lenzen of Prescott, Arizona, who is only the third woman in the history of the American Kitefliers Association Grand Nationals to earn the title of Grand Champion Kite Maker. Her flying fish was a big hit at the 2018 Kitefest.
But it’s not just for pros – everyone from toddlers to senior citizens test their kite-flying skills.
There’s something exhilarating about watching the colorful display of the kites diving and weaving in the winds above the mesa. There is plenty of space without fences, so your kite strings won’t get tangled, and plenty of room to park for your tailgate picnic.
In addition, for a completely different experience, walk one or all six of the labyrinths and a maze across the road at Whitewater Mesa Labyrinths.
It all happens from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 2 at Whitewater Mesa Labyrinths, 355 Bursum Road (NM 159) off Hwy 180, between Glenwood and Alma, NM 88039.
Admission is free. There will be a free drawing for a kite at 2.30 p.m., so be sure to pick up your free ticket on arrival at the gate with the labyrinth sign.
Water, kite-mending supplies, a Johnny on the Spot porta-pottie and loaner kites are provided.
Bring your picnic, your kite, your laughter, the whole family and all your friends, your sunhat and something to sit on.
Additional directions : GPS 33.3765, -108.852 Note: On MapQuest, Google Maps or Apple Maps be sure to enter Glenwood NM after 355 Bursum Road or you will end up 35 miles away on a trail up the mountain in the Gila Wilderness!.
For more information, go to www.wmlabyrinths.com/glenwood-lodging-etc or contact Cordelia Rose at 575-313-1002.
