Today we celebrated the annual Japanese summer festival of
Tanabata, held every year on June 7th (7/7). There’s a legend behind
the festival where two lovers, Orihime and Hikoboshi, get separated by the
gods. Only on June 7th can they see each other again, and the
Japanese celebrate their reunion on this day. The festivities usually consist
of yukata (summer kimono), bon odori (dancing in a circle), games, lots of food,
and fun activities for all. We also had the opportunity to watch a performance
from River City Taiko, a taiko drumming group from Richmond. Everyone enjoyed
the performance thoroughly! Afterwards, we sang the traditional Tanabata song
as a group, and witnessed a short skit from the Tanabata company. It is also a
Tanabata tradition to write down your wish on the tanzaku (wish paper) and hang
it on the sasa (type of bamboo tree). Then we proceeded to the games, prizes,
and fun. All of the sensei declared this festive event the highlight of the
academy!
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