Japanese Culture in New York - Chopsticks NY

OSHOUGATSU in Greater NY Area

In Japan the most important annual holiday is Oshougatsu. Two large Oshougatsu events will take place in Manhattan.   On Sunday, January 18, families may celebrate Oshougatsu with Mochi-tsuki, Japanese traditional performances, and arts and craft activities including Kakizome and Koma at the 14 Street Y in the East Village.  There will also be a silent auction for adults. 

On Sunday, January 25, Japan Society will host an Oshougatsu celebration.  Drawing more than 350 families and children, Oshougatsu is the one of the biggest events in their Japan’s Annual festivities series offering Gagaku (bamboo instruments) and lion dancing (shishi-mai).  In addition, children can participate in Kakizome (New Year’s calligraphy), Takoage (Kite-making), Fukuwarai (making of funny faces using paper), and Mochi-tsuki (rice-pounding). 

Those living north of New York City can join the Oshougatsu celebration in New Canaan, CT.  On Sunday, January 11, The Japan Society of Fairfield County will host an Oshougatsu celebration at Plum Tree Japanese Restaurant.  The event will start with a traditional Japanese New Year’s meal Osechi-ryori, and continue with music and dance including a shamisen (Japanese 3-string banjo) performance and Mochi-tsuki (rice-pounding). 

Sunday, 1/11, 12pm to 4pm
Oshougatsu at Plum Tree Japanese Restaurant
70 Main St., New Canaan, CT 06840 TEL: 203-912-3757


Sunday, 1/18, 1pm to 5pm
Oshougatsu at 14 Street Y
344 E. 14th St., New York, NY 10003 TEL: 212-780-0800 (x243)


Sunday, 1/25, 2pm and 3pm
Oshougatsu at Japan Society
333 E. 47th St., New York, NY 10017 TEL: 212-715-1258

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