Kites will fly high above the Mall on Saturday for the Smithsonian Kite Festival.

The 38th annual event, held in conjunction with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, invites kitemakers to enter their creations in the handmade kite competition. This year’s theme is “Kites Around the World,” and a special award will be given to the creation that best interprets the theme. A variety of other awards will be given out for participants of all ages and skill levels.

Kite-flying experts and representatives from kite organizations will also be on hand to answer questions and demonstrate their skills. The event also will include an exhibition on kite history and a traditional rokkaku kite battle.

Those wishing to enter the handmade kite competition can register at the judging and registration tent from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday. For a complete list of rules, see www.kitefestival.org.

The festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Mall. In the event of rain the event will be moved to Sunday. For more information, call (202) 357-3030.

— Amy Carlile