The Mid-Hudson Japanese Community Association presents a traditional New Year’s Kakizome workshop on Saturday, January 5. Kakizome, which translates to “first writing,” takes place within the first few days of each new year. People use calligraphy to write poems that express their hopes and aspirations for the coming year. The poems are later burned, as if to seal the fate of the hope: a practice reminiscent of blowing out candles on a birthday cake after making a wish. This art workshop/event is free.
New Year’s Kakizome workshop, Saturday, Jan. 5, 2-4 p.m., Arts Mid-Hudson, 696 Dutchess Turnpike, Poughkeepsie, www.artsmidhudson.org
Join the family! 
