This year, the dojo will once again be participating in the Como Conservatory's Japanese Lantern Festival. The Como Park Lantern Festival is one of the largest exhibitions of Japanese culture in the region. The event will feature entertainment, cultural booths, martial arts demonstrations (that's us) and food from 3 - 8 pm. At dusk lanterns are floated on two ponds reminiscent of OBON, the Japanese Festival that honors departed ancestors. There is an admission charge, which is waived for participants. For more information, follow this link to the event web site.

The event takes place in Como Park, just out front of the Conservatory. Parking in the area is limited, so participants and guests are invited to park at the Saint Paul School District Central Facility Service Complex at 1930 Como Ave. From there, you can catch a free shuttle bus to the event. To get information about parking and the shuttle bus follow this link.

This is one of the premiere events in the Twin Cities for connecting with people who have an interest in Japanese culture.  We will begin set-up by 2:00pm, then be there all day doingdemonstrations, teaching people about the four basic principles, and sharing our training. We have two scheduled demonstrations, one at 3:50-4:15pm and the other from 6:10-6:35pm.