On this day every summer,
the residents of the city of Nara, Japan collect
lily stalks by the thousands which grow on a nearby mountainside. Seven young
women dressed in white robes bless the lilies and carry them to the temple
ceremony, where the Shinto priest presents a huge bouquet of lilies at the
altar. After the blessing, the same seven women carry the lily stalks out,
waving them and performing a dance that is meant to cast away the evils of the
rainy season, just past. Finally, a huge float of lilies parades around the
city, purifying the air. On Lily festival day, have young children dress in
white robes (a few bedsheets will do, just secure with a belt, so they won't
trip!) and gather lilies (or any flower, if you don't have lilies). Then have
them create a dance, holding the flowers, meant to welcome the summer season.
Would you like to visit this event?
