Tanabata

Star Festival

Tanabata (七夕), the Star Festival, is a traditional Japanese summer celebration based on the legend of two lovers, Orihime and Hikoboshi, represented by the stars Vega and Altair. Separated by the Milky Way, they are allowed to meet only once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh month.

One of the best-known Tanabata traditions is writing wishes on colourful strips of paper called tanzaku (短冊) and hanging them from bamboo branches. Colourful paper decorations are another characteristic part of Tanabata celebrations throughout Japan.

Tanabata at the Czech-Japanese Association

Our Tanabata tradition began in 2020, when the usual spring Hanami could not take place. Instead, we organised a summer gathering called “Tanabata – Hanami in Summer Kimono”, which gradually developed into a regular event of its own.

Today, our Tanabata combines the tradition of the Japanese Star Festival with music and dance, workshops, Japanese culture, food and activities for all generations. And, of course, everyone can write their own wish on a tanzaku.

Come celebrate Japanese summer with us – and don’t forget to make a wish!

Details of the upcoming Tanabata programme are published separately.