Hina Matsuri or Doll's Festival is celebrated on March 3rd. This is day the day to pray for a young girl's health and happiness. Traditionally, many families set up an elegant display of dolls around mid February but put it away soon after Girls' Day otherwise, according to superstition, the girl will have a hard time marrying.
Many of us in Hawai'i recognize Hinamatsuri and for my family our celebration usually consists of a small token or treat to our daughters (and other little girls we know). If you're in charge of the classroom gift on Girls' Day, here is a link to an easy to make gift. The crafter, Zakka Life, originally intended this as a Valentine's Day gift but it will go great for Hinamatsuri too.
Cut a piece of origami paper to 6" by 3". Fold in half. When folded, cut out two rectangles on each side to form the shape of the body (refer to picture). Punch a hole on the center of the fold. Put the lollipop inside the hole. With Double stick tape, tape inside closed at the bottom of the kimono. Tie ribbon around the waist. Done! *Optional, write a message in the inside of the kimono or write the song below.
The wonderful Hawai'i Children's Discovery Center is also having a doll folding craft (hina-ningyo) craft and a game of kai awase or shell matching game on Saturday, February 28.
Here is a Hina Matsuri song called "Ureshi Hina Matsuri" (Happy Hina Matsuri).
| Akari o tsukemashou bonbori ni 明かりをつけましょう ぼんぼりに |
| Ohana o agemashou momo no hana お花をあげましょう 桃の花 |
| Go-nin bayashi no fue taiko 五人ばやしの 笛太鼓 |
| Kyo wa tanoshii Hinamatsuri 今日は楽しいひな祭り |
| Let's light the lanterns |
| Let's set peach flowers |
| Five court musicians are playing flutes and drums |
| Today is a joyful Dolls' Festival |
song: http://japanese.about.com/library/weekly/aa022501b.htm
More information for Kids:
Kid's Web Japan, Hina Matsuri
