Saturday, January 9, 2027
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Join us for Oshogatsu: A New Year’s Celebration at Morikami!
Join us for a special celebration of Oshogatsu, the Japanese New Year, marking the beginning of our 50th anniversary year. Enjoy traditional arts, family activities, and performances that welcome health, happiness, and harmony in the year ahead.
Activities & Programs:
Mochi-Pounding Demonstrations at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.
Join us for mochitsuki, the traditional Japanese art of making mochi! Watch as steamed sticky rice is pounded with a large wooden mallet called a kine, while another person quickly turns and folds the rice between each powerful strike. This lively tradition takes rhythm, teamwork, and skill—and is an exciting way to welcome the New Year.
Don’t miss the chance to see mochitsuki up close and learn how freshly pounded rice becomes delicious mochi enjoyed during the New Year.
10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Celebrate the New Year with a traditional Japanese pastime! Japan has a long history of toys and games that have entertained children for centuries, many of which are especially popular during the New Year holiday. Fly a kite in our garden throughout the day, and visit the museum store to purchase one to take home and continue the fun.
11 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the Sakai Room
FREE with paid museum admission.
Hanetsuki is a traditional New Year’s game like badminton that is played with a wooden paddle called a hagoita. Usher in the new year by playing hanetsuki on your own hagoita! This fun, hands-on craft activity is perfect for kids of all ages. No reservation required!
12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the Morikami Theater
$5 with paid museum admission.
Celebrate the New Year with the beautiful sounds of the koto, a traditional Japanese stringed instrument. Enjoy a special performance by Morikami’s intermediate koto students.
12 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. in the Morikami Gardens at the concrete pad.
FREE with paid museum admission.
Experience the elegance and precision of Omato-shiki, a rare ceremonial form of Japanese archery performed by members of the Ogasawara-ryū American Branch. This centuries-old tradition offers a glimpse into the history, discipline, and spirit of Japanese archery.
Demonstration by South Florida Kyudo Kai.
