The Idaho Japanese Association hosts a New Year celebration the first week in January each year. This year’s party was at the Dick Eardley Senior Center and there was no admission charge, thanks to a grant from the Boise City Department of Arts and History.
Traditional kadomatsu (which means “gate pine”) are placed on each side of the entry to the celebration. The arrangements attract luck for the New Year.
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Music and recitations from students from the Idaho Japanese School.
Pounding, or whacking, the mochi is another tradition at the event. Messy fun!
Food is a big part of the celebration. It’s potluck-style, each family is asked to bring two dishes. There’s origami, too.