Shinzen Japanese Garden Events

Shinzen Garden Annual Events 2008

1-Taira Ume Grove in Bloom, January through February

2-Spring-Artist In The Garden Day
March 21, 9:00 a.m. to 3 p.m.
This event is held each year specifically for artists of all kinds. Photographers, painters even musicians wanting a quiet place to practice, find the garden a "piece of heaven". This day is for any artist with equipment and the admission to the garden is free. (The Garden is closed to the public)

3-Spring Blossom Festival and Bonsai Society Spring Show
Saturday & Sunday April 5th and 6th, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

This annual event occurs on the weekend closest to the Equinox, when the Spring section especially is ablaze with color. Blooming cherry and crabapple trees, yellow forsythia, kerria (Japanese rose) and miniature daffodils will be dressed in their glowing color. The Teahouse (one of the only two authentic teahouses in the United States), is open for viewing, and Docents are available to assist visitors and answer questions pertaining to the Garden. The Bonsai show will be held in conjunction with the Spring Blossom Festival. This is an opportunity to view over 100 specimens of beautiful and extraordinary Bonsai. Also enjoy educational demonstrations and sales.

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4-Shinzen Run, Saturday April 26, 6:00 a.m.

5-Toro Nagashi (Floating Lantern) Ceremony,
Saturday August 9 at 7:00 p.m.
The "Floating Lantern" ceremony occurs at the end of the Obon Season, which celebrates the joyous reunion with our loved ones who have passed away. At this inspirational Toro Nagashi Ceremony, the spirits will end their brief visit on earth with their loved ones; they will be tenderly launched on their lantern-lit-boat journey back to the spiritual homes in the "hereafter". A performance by the powerful Clovis Heiwa Taiko Drummers, the chanting of the sutras for the departed, and the dedication, lighting and launching of the lantern boats make this beautiful and emotional ceremony an event to remember. Call Julie Spina, 559-297-1041 for information.

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6- Autumn Artist Day in the Garden Day, October 24, 9 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
This event is held each year specifically for artists of all kinds. Photographers, painters even musicians wanting a quiet place to practice, find the garden a "piece of heaven". This day is for any artist with equipment and the admission to the garden is free. (The Garden is closed to the public)

7-Shinzen Cultural Faire,
Saturday November 1, 10:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m.
This event is held in the Garden and features art auctions, art exhibits, children's activities, educational displays, floral arts, food booths, Japanese poetry, Kol exhibits, Martial Arts, plant sales, raffles, Tea Ceremonies, and a performance by the Clovis Heiwa Taiko Drummers.

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8-Fall Color Festival, Sunday, November 2 10:00 a.m. 5 p.m.
This festival celebrates the gorgeous autumn colors of the Garden foliage. The Teahouse is open for viewing, and Docents are available to answer questions about the Garden.