On the afternoon of Sunday, August 30, the University of Illinois Japan House threw their inaugural Matsuri, which is the Japanese word for “festival”. The day was warm and very humid, but that did not stop the crowds from showing up in force. Speaking briefly with Matsuri host and Interim Director of Japan House Jennifer Gunji-Ballsrud, her surprise was evident. “We expected about five hundred people, but instead had several thousand attend.” So many people attended, in fact, that even after the vendors requested reinforcements and resupplies the food ran out by late afternoon. Still, the heat, humidity, and loss of food did little to dampen the crowd’s spirits as they were kept entertained by martial arts displays, a cosplay station, lessons on bonsai gardening, tea ceremonies, and even more. The draw of the night, however, were the musical performances by Ho Etsu Taiko. Hailing from the Chicago area, the group brought a unique and beautiful Japanese drum and percussion performance that left the crowd clapping and cheering after every song. If you missed Matsuri this year, mark the end of August for its return in 2016.
Below, the Candyman had lots of tricks for the crowd.
Below, fish out the balloon for a prize before your tissue breaks!
Below, tours of the Japan House gardens ran throughout the day.
Below, enjoy a Shiatsu massage.
Below, a truly rare thing: a summer cool tea ceremony.
Below, the crowd learns about bonsai care and gardening.
Below, make your own pottery dish or bowl.
Below, Matsuri host Jennifer Gunji-Ballsrud thanks the crowd for their tremendous support.
Below, tears of joy and a hug from a friend for a job well done!
