What (Usually) People Do

Tanzaku hanging on bamboo

In present-day Japan, people generally celebrate Tanabata by writing wishes, sometimes in the form of poetry, on tanzaku (短冊 tanzaku), small pieces of paper, and hanging them on bamboo, sometimes with other decorations (see also Wish Tree). The bamboo and decorations are often set afloat on a river or burned after the festival, around midnight or on the next day.

Festivals Across the Land

The Big

Large-scale festivals are held on this day in many places in Japan, mainly along shopping malls and streets, which are decorated with large, colorful streamers. The most famous Of these festivals is held in Sendai from 6 to 8 August. In the Kantō area, two of the largest such festivals are held in Hiratsuka, Kanagawa (around 7 July) and in Asagaya, Tokyo immediately prior to the start of the Obon holiday in mid August. This festival is also held in São Paulo, Brazil around the first weekend of July and Los Angeles, California in the beginning of August.

The Small

Although Tanabata festivals vary by region, most festivals involve Tanabata decoration competitions. Other events may include parades and Miss Tanabata contests. Like other Japanese matsuri, many outdoor stalls sell food, provide carnival games, etc., and add to the festive atmosphere.

Check Out Tanabata Festivities in Your Local Area

七夕

Or

星祭り

References

In English

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanabata

In Japanese

http://www.i-nekko.jp/nenchugyoji/gosekku/tanabata/

http://www.kongohin-kids.com/montheve/07

https://kotobank.jp/word/七夕-93881

Image thanks to FrankinJapan @ PixaBay via SnappyGoat.com

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