Are you making a wish upon the stars on Tanabata this year? We are, here at the Seattle Japanese Garden! Our wish is to celebrate Tanabata with you in person next year in 2022.
Enjoy the Tanabata story and other activities below, and write your wish on a tanzaku.
Tanabata (七夕) :
The story of Tanabata comes from the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi, star crossed lovers separated by the Milky Way. Each year on the evening of July 7th, Orihime and Hikoboshi are allowed to reunite for one night only. In Japan, Tanabata is celebrated by decorating bamboo branches with origami ornaments and tanzaku, poems or wishes written on small strips of paper.
Listen to Tanabata Story
Tanabatasama (たなばたさま) is a story based on the Japanese folktale.
Written: Yoko Imoto
Published: 金の星社
Recited: Yukari Yamano
Music: Soothing Relaxation
Make Tanabata Origami
Find Tanabata themed origami instructions here!
Learn About Stars Tonight
Photo: Seattle Astronomical Society
The Seattle Astronomical Society (SAS) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, created and sustained by members who share a common interest in the observational, educational, and social aspects of amateur astronomy. Established in 1948, the SAS includes a diverse collection of people of all ages, occupations, educational levels, and astronomy experience, ranging from beginners to professional astronomers.
Meet Our Bamboo Expert Friends
American Bamboo Company is the premier bamboo specialist founded in 2010 in Seattle, Washington. They are passionate about educating the public about the benefits of working with the bamboo plant and growing bamboo plants.
Look for our bamboo workshop information at the Seattle Japanese Garden, hosted by the American Bamboo Company, in October!
Photo: St. Larry Pierre
