The Japanese Star Festival

According to Chinese legends, the seventh day of the seventh month is when the stars Altair and Vega are able to cross over the celestial boundaries that separate them and meet. Japan marks this occasion with a celebration known as Tanabata, the Star Festival.

During Tanabata, people traditionally like to write their wishes on a small strip of paper. This paper is then tied to the branches of bamboo trees, which are specially erected for the occasion. Tradition states that wishes tied up in this way are more likely to be granted.

Depending on where you go in Japan, this festival could be held on either July 7th or August 7th. This discrepancy is due to the fact that some places observe the familiar solar calendar, while others continue to go by the Chinese-style lunar calendar. Whenever it is celebrated, it is an occasion for colorful festivities and family togetherness. Come and mark the occasion for yourself with some quality fare at Wild Wasabi’s Japanese restaurant in Lynnwood!