World Language students support Kite & Piñata Festival

 

From building piñatas to volunteering their time to help people make kites, Springfield Public Schools students played a vital role in the Cherry Blossom Kite and Piñata Festival at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

The festival, hosted by the Springfield Sister Cities Association and the Jeannette L. Musgraves Foundation, is an annual celebration of spring with Japanese and Mexican culture. The event is meant to provide a free “thank you” to the Springfield community for the support and connections of the long-standing relationship with both sister cities Isesaki, Japan, and Tlaquepaque, Mexico.

Each year Kickapoo High School Japanese language students volunteer helping people create paper kites and learn about Japanese culture. Families are then encouraged to take the kites they’ve made for a first flight at the festival. 

Cherokee Middle School Spanish classes also created piñatas for the event which served as both decorations and in the “piñata whacking station.” Led by Cherokee Spanish Teacher Connor Jones, students donated nearly 40 piñatas.

“SPS students contribute tremendously to the event, from crafting fun, creative piñatas to thoughtfully leading cultural activities for children,” said Lisa Bakerink, Springfield Sister Cities Association executive director. “Their enthusiasm and creativity help create a richer, more engaging festival experience for everyone involved.”