Families, friends and community members are invited to gather for an evening of Japanese culture, music, dance, science and stargazing at the Tanabata Block Party 2025 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday on North A‘ohoku Place in Hilo, above ‘Imiloa Astronomy Center at the University of Hawaii at Hilo Science and Technology Park.

This free, family-friendly celebration blends the beauty of Japanese tradition with the wonder of modern science, including Maunakea astronomy discoveries. Guests can look forward to exciting cultural performances, hands-on activities, food and entertainment for all ages, including:

— Taiko drumming performances by Taishoji Taiko and Hilo High Taiko;

— Bon dance lessons to get everyone moving to the beat by Hilo High Japan Club;

— Tanabata storytelling presented by

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