On December 14, 2024, JASC (Japan America Society of Colorado) and JETAARM came together to host a heartwarming and creative nengajo printing event, marking the end of the year with a cherished Japanese tradition. Held in anticipation of the Year of the Snake, the event welcomed dozens of attendees of all ages, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere for exploring the art and culture of New Year’s postcards.

The event began with an engaging presentation on the cultural significance of nengajo in Japan. Just as holiday cards are exchanged in the West, nengajo hold a special place in Japanese New Year’s celebrations. These postcards are often sent to friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances to express gratitude, share well-wishes, and maintain personal connections. The act of creating and sending nengajo reflects the importance of starting the new year with thoughtful communication and goodwill. Participants learned about the traditions surrounding nengajo, including their history, common designs, and the etiquette of ensuring they arrive precisely on January 1st.

Following the presentation, attendees were invited to visit a variety of art stations set up throughout the venue. Each station offered a unique way to express creativity and personalize nengajo, making the event engaging and accessible for participants of all skill levels. The stations included:

• Printing Station: Equipped with pre-made templates and tools, this station allowed participants to experiment with various designs and techniques to produce vibrant and professional-looking nengajo.

• Stamping Station: Featuring an array of stamps with traditional and modern motifs, attendees could easily decorate their postcards with images of snakes, kanji characters, and seasonal symbols.

• Painting Station: This station provided paints and brushes for those who wanted to create their designs freehand, fostering creativity and encouraging artistic exploration.

• Calligraphy Station: Guided by experienced volunteers, participants could practice writing traditional New Year’s greetings or other meaningful messages in elegant Japanese calligraphy.

• Coloring Station: Perfect for younger attendees and those seeking a relaxing activity, this station offered pre-drawn designs that could be colored in with markers or pencils.

The collaborative effort between JASC and JETAARM ensured a seamless and enjoyable experience for all. Families, friends, and individuals gathered around the stations, sharing ideas, laughter, and inspiration as they crafted their nengajo. The family-friendly nature of the event made it a wonderful opportunity for attendees to introduce their loved ones to Japanese culture and traditions.

The variety of stations allowed everyone to find their preferred creative outlet, and many attendees proudly showcased their completed nengajo, eager to exchange them with friends and family in the new year. The event’s success highlighted the power of cultural exchange and hands-on learning to bring people together and foster a deeper appreciation for Japanese traditions.

JASC and JETAARM extend their heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and made the event a memorable celebration of creativity and community. We are especially grateful to the volunteers who helped organize and run the stations, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. Your dedication and enthusiasm were instrumental in making the event such a success.

As we step into the Year of the Snake, we hope that the spirit of goodwill and creativity fostered at this event will inspire everyone to stay connected and engaged with Japanese culture throughout the year. Be sure to follow JASC and JETAARM on social media and check our websites for updates on upcoming events. We look forward to seeing you at our next cultural gathering and continuing to celebrate the beauty and richness of Japanese traditions with you.