Although the annual Hinamatsuri Festival held at the Detroit Institute of Arts is over, we are still looking back on this outstanding annual event. Each year, this event includes a wide variety of cultural displays, including kimono-wearing of exceptional skill and talent. For the 2023 celebration, there was a formal kimono display focused on Japanese weddings.
The kimono display was organized and arranged by the JSD Womens Club. On display are the bridal attire, the groom’s attire, and the mother of the bride’s attire. The mother of the bride is shown wearing a kurotomesode. The bride is shown wearing an intricate multi-layered ensemble that on the top layer features a beautiful all-white type of kimono called a Shiromuku. The groom is shown wearing haori, kimono and hakama. Kimono dress for weddings is considered to be one of the most advanced skill sets one could have with kimono dress.
What is Hinamatsuri?
Hinamatsuri is a traditional festival unique to Japan that is also known as the Doll Festival or Girls’ Day. It is celebrated on March 3 of each year and is a time of prayer for the health and happiness of young women. The festival dates back to the Heian period (794-1185) and has its roots in the custom of making dolls.
Even today, the festival is still observed in Japan and in other parts of the world. Globally, the festival is primarily associated with the display of hinamatsuri dolls, which are a set of ornamental dolls representing the Emperor, Empress, attendants, and musicians in traditional Heian period court dress. Families with young daughters will set up a display of these dolls in their homes, often with decorations such as peach blossoms, a symbol of good luck and longevity.
Hinamatusri festivals are celebrated nationwideso be sure to keep an eye out for a festival around March near you!
