Seattle Japanese Garden – July First Free Thursday
July 3 @ 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Celebrate Culture and Creativity at the Seattle Japanese Garden
July First Free Thursday
Seattle’s Japanese Garden invites visitors to a special day of beauty, tradition, and art on Thursday, July 3rd, as part of its First Free Thursday series. From noon onward, guests can enjoy free admission, making it the perfect opportunity to explore the garden’s serene landscapes while also experiencing two unique cultural events: Tanabata and the opening reception of the SJG Youth Photography Exhibit.
Explore the Garden for Free
The Seattle Japanese Garden, located in the Washington Park Arboretum, opens its gates to the public at 12:00 PM on July 3rd with free admission for all. Visitors can stroll winding paths, cross the iconic zig-zag bridge, and admire koi-filled ponds, maples, and meticulously pruned pines in this classic stroll-style garden—one of the most authentic Japanese gardens in North America.
SJG Youth Photography Exhibit Opening Reception
In the Tateuchi Community Room, the garden will unveil the 2025 Youth Photography Exhibit. This year’s exhibit showcases the work of talented young artists who participated in spring photography workshops held in partnership with Youth InFocus, a nonprofit empowering youth through photography and arts education.
These workshops provided local teens with the opportunity to explore the garden through a creative lens, learning photography techniques while connecting with the natural and cultural beauty around them. The exhibit offers a fresh perspective on the garden’s timeless appeal—through the eyes of its youngest photographers.
Celebrate Tanabata: The Star Festival
During your visit, take part in a Tanabata (Star Festival) celebration, a beloved Japanese tradition with celestial roots. According to legend, Orihime (the weaving princess) and Hikoboshi (the cowherd star) are separated by the Milky Way and allowed to reunite only once a year—on the evening of July 7th.
To honor their story, the garden invites guests to:
- Write their wishes on colorful tanzaku (paper strips)
- Hang them on bamboo branches in the garden
- Contribute to a community display of hopes, dreams, and blessings
Visitors can also view festive origami decorations adorning the garden, bringing the spirit of Tanabata to life.
A Day of Reflection, Art, and Culture
Whether you’re admiring the artistic expression of local youth or tying your own wish to a bamboo stalk, this special day at the Seattle Japanese Garden offers a peaceful and inspiring way to connect with community and culture.
Mark your calendar for July 3rd, and bring friends and family for an afternoon of free admission, artful discovery, and Tanabata magic in one of Seattle’s most cherished green spaces.
Learn more at: Seattle Japanese Garden