Bon Odori and Tanabata, July 11, 2009
The Japan Society of Fairfield County held
its 16th Annual
Bon Odori, Summer Festival, on July 11th 2009 in Westport. Held
annually all over Japan since 657 A.D., Bon Odori is Japan’s main
summer festival with Buddhist folk dances performed outdoors.
Over time this event has become a joyous memorial festival for one's
ancestors. It is a time to appreciate all that our ancestors have
done for us and to recognize the continuation of their influence on our
lives. 
The U Conn Taiko drummers did a great job
attracting a
crowd with
their drumming. Taiko literally means “fat drum.” The rumbling
power of the taiko has been long been associated with the gods.
Following their performance, the U Conn Taiko Drummers invited all the
kids to a loud, crowded and enjoyable mini-workshop.
Everyone stayed till the last moment to
celebrate
Tanabata, the Star
Festival, writing a wish on a tanzak, a small piece of paper, and
hanging it on a long bamboo pole decorated with origami to take
home. Tanabata, meaning “seven evenings,” celebrates the meeting
of two stars; Orihime (Vega) and Hikoboshi (Altair). The Milky Way
separates these lovers and they are allowed to meet only once a
year. 