Origami Festival Sponsors

Origami Festival
Sunday, July 13th, 2008 12 PM - 4 PM

We will embrace the Olympic spirit for Origami Festival 2008.  Held in Beijing, China, in summer 2008, the games symbolize a worldwide celebration of unity. The Japanese Garden shares in these aspirations and will provide an event that embraces all cultures and ages for the highly diverse community of Long Beach.  Paper and origami were invented in China as well as two of the most famous origami folds: the crane and the turtle.  Learn to make these animals as well as the famous dragon, all symbolizing good luck, long life, and prosperity.  More than 40 experts from local and national origami clubs will teach guests in ongoing demonstrations.  The art of kirigami, folded paper that is then cut, will also be explored at the Festival as visitors learn to create classic Chinese patterns found on jade jewelry and architectural carved beams.

Admission: $7 adults, $6 seniors, $5 Japanese Garden members, children 12 and under free.

The Tale of Genji Blooms at the Japanese Garden
Date and time TBA

See the garden through the eyes of the 11th century Heian Court noblewoman, Lady Murasaki, authoress of the Tale of Genji, the first novel ever written.  CSULB students will be dressed in gorgeous, one-of-a-kind costumes emulating Heian Imperial court and characters in the novel, brought from Japan for public viewing.  Meet seven kimono masters from Japan as well as Heian literature expert, Hiroaki Sera from Shikoku University in Tokushima, Japan.

Admission: TBA

The Japanese Garden Chrysanthemum Show
Saturday & Sunday, October 25th & 26th, 2008, time TBA

Enjoy viewing award-winning chrysanthemum flowers in the nationally juried Chrysanthemum Society of Orange County flower show. Blue ribbon winners in many magnificent shapes and colors, some larger than your hand, along with creative flower arrangements will astound viewers. Many varieties of mums, including cut and potted blooms, will be available for purchase throughout the two day event at reasonable prices. Enjoy strolling through the garden during this vibrant annual event.

Admission to the event is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 for Japanese Garden members. Children 12 and under will be admitted free.

Koi Auction
Sunday, November 16th, 2008 11:30AM – 3PM, Auction begins at 12 Noon

Live koi auction! This is your opportunity to buy gorgeous koi fish of every size and color at affordable prices from a professional auctioneer.  Discover why so many koi enthusiasts of southern California never miss this exciting annual auction. Learn about koi from ZNA Koi Club members.  Auction preview at 11:30 AM, auction begins and noon.

Admission: Adults $5, Seniors $4, children 12 and under free, Friends of the Japanese Garden Members $3, CSULB students free.