Today is the Japanese festival of Tanabata, or “star festival”. It takes place on the 7th day of the 7th month. It originates from a Chinese legend that says “the two stars Altair and Vega, which are usually separated from each other by the Milky Way, are able to meet.”
If you’d like to observe the day, check out this video where you can learn about story, some decorations, and the tanzaku, a special piece of paper where you write down your wishes.
Between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. today, Japan House will have special bamboo branches outside where you can place your wishes or hang any decorations that you make. They ask that you wear a face covering and keep your distance from others as you visit.
Image from Japan House.