‘Tanabata Time’: Public invited to cultural festival at Hawaii Japanese Center

The Hawaii Japanese Center will celebrate its second annual Tanabata (Star Festival) from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 8.

The traditional Japanese observance of Tanabata is inspired by the story of Orihime and Hikoboshi (the stars Vega and Altair, respectively) — two deities who were separated from each other by the Milky Way and could only be united once a year.

“Tanabata Time” features the popular kimono dressing for girls and boys with picture-taking services. The costs are $3 individual pose, $5 two people, $10 family (three or more).

The custom of celebrating Tanabata by writing one’s wishes on pieces of paper called tanzaku and hanging them up on bamboo also will be observed.

Other Tanabata Time events include children’s make-and-take craft activities and games, storytelling, matsuri dancing and karaoke. And everyone is welcome to enter the kusudama ball contest by creating the colorful fukinagashi (streamers) with materials provided at the event.

In addition to hot dogs and chili, a somen nagashi activity will be included where participants must capture the somen noodles with their chopsticks as they float by on water running through a bamboo trough.

Admission is free, with nominal fees for food items and specific activities. Donations are gratefully accepted.

The Hawaii Japanese Center is located at 751 Kanoelehua Ave. For more information, call 934-9611 during office hours, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, or email contact@hawaiijapanesecenter.com.