It’s been a wild and crazy winter here in Toronto. We have experienced snowstorms, unseasonably warm weather, cold weather warnings and so much more. The only thing that we know is guaranteed is that spring will arrive at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre (JCCC) on March 1 and 2, 2008! The JCCC will be opening our door to everyone as they celebrate a weekend of filled with activities, entertainment and exhibits at Haru Matsuri 2008!!

This year’s theme is Flowers. In North America, excitement always runs high when the weather warms enough for the first crocuses; tulips and daffodils poke their leaves up through the moist dirt of the garden. In Japan, the blossoming of the cherry blossoms is synonymous with springtime. We hope to lift everyone’s spirits for the return of warmer weather by highlighting flowers.

Haru Matsuri will also include Japanese arts and crafts demonstrations such as Ikebana (flower arranging), Bunka Shishu (embroidery), Origami (paperfolding) and Sumi-e (brush painting). The JCCC offers classes in all of these areas and you can sign up for our Spring programmes.

The JCCC’s martial artists will demonstrate the techniques of “The Way of the Warrior” through Aikido, Judo, Karate, Iaido, Naginata, and Kendo.

For entertainment, there will be odori (traditional Japanese dancing) by JCCC traditional dance groups Ayame-Kai, Sakura-Kai, Himawari Buyokai, and Taiko (Japanese drumming). Japanese cuisine will also be available in the food court.

As always the JCCC and Kobayashi Hall will be colourfully and elaborately decorated to welcome the spring and the long-awaited close of the winter season. Festival guests entering the Centre will be greeted by an elaborate display of Hina Matsuri Dolls.

Gather your family and friends and come to the JCCC, and join us as we celebrate the arrival of Spring!

Date: Saturday March 1 and Sunday March 2, 2008
Time: 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Admission: Family $10 (2 adults/2 children), Adults $4
Children and Seniors $2,
JCCC Members free

For further information, please contact the JCCC at 416-441-2345, or visit our website at www.jccc.on.ca.