Getting Ready Keiro no Hi - Obento Luncheon
敬老の日
September 11, 2022
12:30pm - 3:00pm
3608 Park Lake Dr.
Fort Worth, TX 76133
Adults - $15
Seniors & Children (8+) - $12
On September 11, 2022, we will hold our annual celebration of Keiro no Hi, or “Respect for the Aged Day,” with an obento luncheon and two obento contests.
Since the founding of the Fort Worth Japanese Society in 1985, our elder members have played a key role in our mission to build better relationships between American and Japanese people. Observing the Japanese national holiday of Keiro no Hi is our way of expressing our deep gratitude for their contributions while celebrating their long life and vitality.
History 歴史
Japanese culture underwent many changes in the wake of World War II. Not only were people traumatized by the events of the war itself, but Japanese society underwent rapid Westernization. No part of Japanese life was left untouched by the changes in government, economy, and education.
This was a difficult time for all of Japan, but especially so for the elder population.
In 1947, the mayor of a small town in Hyogo Prefecture (west of Kyoto) looked for a way to show appreciation for citizens over the age of 55 and prepared food and entertainment to honor them. The idea of such a celebration spread like a wildfire across Japan.
The Japanese government recognized Kiero no Hi as a national holiday in 1966.
Although it is a new holiday compared to other cultural traditions with hundreds, sometimes thousands, of years of history, the tradition of honoring one’s elders has deep roots in Japanese culture.
How We Celebrate
Luncheon &
Obento Contest
The Wakabakai group will create delicious obento lunches for all attending members to enjoy together (full menu to follow). If you are already on our mailing list, expect an email around the end of August-early September with a link to purchase a ticket.
In addition to enjoying a meal together, we will be holding not one, but two obento contests this year! There are prizes for the winners and both contests are free to enter.
For the first contest, anyone wishing to enter may bring their own decorated obento from home. There is no limit on how many contestants may enter this contest.
For the second, contestants will be provided with all materials to create and decorate an obento during the event. This event will be timed and only 5 contestants may enter.
Anyone who is interested in participating should inquire at the door about registering.
We look forward to seeing everyone there! そこで会いましょう!