NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's the tenth year of a special celebration of Japanese culture at Cheekwood Estate and Gardens.
Held Sunday, September 15 from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Otsukimi — the Japanese Moon Viewing Festival — is Cheekwood's annual celebration of Japanese art, gardens and culture. It happens near the date of the Harvest Moon in partnership with the Consulate-General of Japan and Japan American Society of Tennessee.
Tea ceremony
5:00, 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. on the Arboretum Lawn — experience the preparation, presentation and taste of green tea. You get to watch the tea master prepare it and then sample the final product. After 7:00 p.m., there will be a kendama demonstration with a wodden skill toy from Japan played around the world.
Music
Nashville Taiko, 5:30 p.m. at Arboretum Lawn — For the first time, this includes percussion, choreography and music. Taiko means any kind of drum in Japanese.
Choir SAKURA, 6:00 p.m. at Arboretum Lawn — This group sings popular Japanese songs from movies and anime, and has been around since 2008.
Shamisen Knoxville, 7:30 p.m. at Arboretum Lawn — This is a traditional three string instrument, part of Japan since the 16th century. A group from UT-Knoxville and across the community will play it.
There's lots more to do at this festival, including a haiku contest, mochi pounding, and art. If you want to purchase tickets or learn more information about the festival, just visit Cheekwood's website.
Breaking barriers and moving to the beat! One local dance company is making it possible for young people in wheelchairs to move and groove like everyone else. Good for your mental health, good for your physical health and good for your dose of positive news today. I hope you check out what they're doing!
-Rebecca Schleicher
