Experience a year of Japanese celebrations with the Garden’s annual cultural festivals
February 23 – March 7th, 2022
Hina Matsuri, the Doll Festival
A treat for the whole family, the Garden celebrates this holiday by showcasing a collection of hina dolls in the Jordan Schnitzer Japanese Arts Learning Center from February 23 through March 7.
May 8, 2022
Kodomo-no Hi, Children’s Day
A range of family-friendly activities, including taiko drumming, a scavenger hunt, and take-home craft activities, makes this the perfect festival for kids of all ages.
July 10, 2022
Tanabata, the Star Festival
Celebrate the Star Festival by decorating bamboo branches with origami ornaments and colorful written wishes. Music and storytelling add to the all-ages fun!
August 13 – 14, 2022
O-Bon, the Spirit Festival
Join us during the magical hours of dusk in the Garden as we pay tribute to the memory of loved ones by lighting incense and watching candles float in the Upper Pond near the Moon Bridge. The evening will include purification sake, chanting of the Lotus Sutra by Reverend Zuigaku Kodachi, and reading names of the recently departed. This event is for members only.
September 10th – 11th, 2022
O-Tsukimi, the Moonviewing Festival
Start the evening with an intimate and peaceful stroll through the lantern-lit Garden. Take in authentic Japanese music. Catch up with friends, old and new. Enjoy a cup of tea as you watch the harvest moon rise above the city.
Tickets required.