PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — The Portland Japanese Garden hosted a vibrant celebration of Tanabata, the Star Festival, on Sunday, July 6.
This family-friendly event invited guests to partake in a centuries-old Japanese tradition of writing wishes on tanzaku, narrow strips of paper, and hanging them on bamboo branches.
Kelsey Cleveland, the cultural programs manager, explained the significance of the festival. “Portland Japanese Garden is celebrating a cultural festival known as Tanabata. It’s one of the five traditional Japanese festivals,” said Cleveland. “The holiday is inspired by an ancient folk tale about two star-crossed lovers who only get to meet on July 7th. One of the things that they do to celebrate in Japan is write wishes.”
Visitors got the opportunity to write their own wishes in the Yanai Family Classroom and hang them in the Crumpacker Bamboo Allee.
The festival also featured musical performances by Takohachi, who shared the story of Tanabata through music and storytelling.
Cleveland noted the diverse crowd the festival attracts. “I’ve seen families, I’ve seen grandparents with their grandkids. I’ve seen people of all ages here,” she said. “They’re enjoying the performance even despite the sun sitting in the sun enjoying a highly energetic taiko performance by Takohachi.”
The event was a lively and engaging experience for all ages, with a focus on harmony and peace. “We always love it when people wish for peace,” Cleveland added. “There’s always wishes for happiness and health for their family members.”