Morikami Celebrates Year of the Horse

Kyudo Archery
Photo: Morikami Museum and Japanese Garden

(Press Release) Delray Beach, FL — Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens will welcome in the new year with Oshogatsu Weekend: Year of the Horse, a vibrant two-day celebration on January 3-4, 2026. The museum's annual event honors traditional Japanese New Year customs centered on renewal, family, and good fortune.

Guests of all ages are invited to experience a variety of cultural performances, demonstrations, and hands-on activities throughout the weekend. Highlights include a rare Kyudo archery demonstration, featuring members of the Ogasawara-ryū American Branch performing Omato-shiki, an ancient ceremonial form of Japanese archery rooted in samurai tradition.​

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Visitors can also learn about Mochitsuki, the traditional pounding of rice to make mochi, a beloved New Year’s dessert symbolizing prosperity and longevity. Freshly made mochi will also be available for purchase. 

Additional festivities include elegant koto music performances, family-friendly craft activities, and Omikuji fortune telling.

Saturday, January 3 Activities:Mochitsuki Demonstrations: 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. (Gardens)Kyudo Archery Demonstrations: 12 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. (Gardens)Family Fun Craft Activities: 12 p.m. – 3 p.m. (Kamiya Room)Omikuji Fortune Telling: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ($1, cash only) (Lobby)Sunday, January 4 Activities:New Year Koto Concert: 12 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. ($5) (Theater)Omikuji Fortune Telling: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. ($1) (Lobby)Oshogatsu Weekend is free with paid museum admission unless otherwise noted.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. For more information, call (561) 495-0233 or visit morikami.org.