Fall traditions: respecting our elders!

Respect for the aged day is a public holiday in Japan. It was on Monday September 16th in 2024. On that day there are usually various events for the senior population. However, my town does not have their 'respect for the aged' events until October. Last weekend there was a party for all the people over the age of 75 in our district.

As part of that party two of my children performed at a concert in the hall of our local elementary school. It happened to be on in the school that they go to, but it has nothing to do with the school. The party is organized by the town hall and the performers are chosen from a selection submitted by local music and dance schools. My children ended up performing at it because their piano teacher put their name forward.

The event is completely free for the seniors who attend and they get a free bento, drink and lots of goodies too. The Mayor and other senior officials open the party with speeches and appreciation for all in attendance. As parents of younger performers my husband and I can attend the event too, but we watch from the sidelines or from behind the stage. We were laughing thinking that before we know it we'll be on the other side of the stage too!