Japanese Garden Festival

November 7-8, 2009

The annual Japanese Garden Festival brings the sights and sounds of traditional music and horticulture to Descanso Gardens every autumn. Activities range from the thundering sounds of taiko drums to the tranquil, meditative quality of Ikebana. All evoke the culture of Japan.

Chrysanthemum Show and Sale
9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Van de Kamp Hall
Revered for its beauty in the Far East, the versatile mum gets its time in the center stage. Check out giants, buttons and exotics presented by the Glendale Chrysanthemum Society.

Ikebana Display
9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Minka
Kaz Kitajama of the Sogetsu School of Ikebana presents beautiful examples of the fine art of flower arranging, one of Japan's traditional arts.

Full Moon Tea House
Noon–4 p.m. | Japanese Garden
Imagine you’re in the Japanese countryside at a sit-down Full Moon Tea Service. Tickle your taste buds with miso soup, roasted shitake mushroom and seaweed salad and other savories. $19.50 per person. Reservations are between noon and 2 p.m. Call (818) 790-3663 at least 48 hours in advance. More Info.

Taiko Drumming
Saturday, Nov. 7 | 1 p.m. | Under the Oaks Theater
Like thunderbolts from Edo, the power of taiko drumming reverberates throughout the Gardens. After the performance, try your hand at drumming and snap photos surrounded by these magnificent instruments.

Gift Shop
Bursting at the seams, the Gift Shop and Plant Patio opens up into the Courtyard with tantalizing treasures. Check out gourmet treats, chrysanthemums and Japanese-themed specialty items.