Skip to Main Content

2024 Arts and Culture Series: Anderson Japanese Gardens

Location: Anderson Japanese Gardens, 318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford

Ag 9

Donna Sagami spoke about Japanese culture in general and about the story of her family in particular.

Japanese Gardens 4

Chef Ellie Jun and organizer Jenny Graham

Anderson Gardens 1 Ag 8 Japanese Gardens 5 Ag 11

ASIAN ART & CULTURE PRESENTATION
Japanese Summer Festival
at the Anderson Japanese Gardens

After Event  Recap and Photos:

Those who attended the presentation enjoyed an authentic meal prepared by Chef Ellie Jun, followed by a discussion about the Japanese experience and culture in the USA. Donna Sagami spoke about Japanese culture in general and about her family’s story, particularly the hardships of immigrating to a new land and devising ways to make a living, the growing anti-Asian prejudice, culminating in the Internment Camps of World War II. Information was also shared about the Japanese influence on Frank L. Wright's designs. Several churches from the Chicago suburbs and the Prairie North and Prairie South Districts gathered. The group then attended the festival to experience the artistry of the many aspects of Japanese Culture.

Download the Did You Know document.

Read a recap and watch a video by Richard Guzman


Saturday, July 27
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Anderson Japanese Gardens
318 Spring Creek Rd, Rockford

The Japanese Summer Festival features exhibits, demonstrations and unique performances that appeal to all age groups and foster a better understanding of the Japanese culture. Learn more about the festival here.

Cost

  • $10 admission*
  • $25 admission and Asian meal*

The NIC Anti-Racism Team will be meeting anyone interested in a catered Asian meal and discussion in the overflow parking area of the College of Medicine at noon.(Complimentary Shuttle Service Offered to & from Visitor Center)

Learn more about the Arts and Culture Series

Optional addition: Opportunity to participate in a Tea Ceremony. Tickets are additional and available through the Anderson Japanese Gardens here. Space is limited.

*** Tickets are at a reduced price for those who are connected to a Northern Illinois United Methodist Church.

News & Announcements

Lsm Change Article Image

A New Season in Lay Servant Ministries

Lay Servant Ministries is entering a new season of leadership as Kim Emery begins serving as director of the Conference Committee, following 10 years of leadership by Peggy Hansen. Lay Se…

Wheaton Gary Mission Trip1

Putting Faith Into Action: Serving Near and Far

Northern Illinois Conference churches put faith into action through summer mission experiences, from local service projects to weeklong trips across the country. While the proje…

Rockford Christ Beth Eden Camping 5

Camp and Retreat Ministry Task Force Moves into Feasibility Study

The Bishop’s Camp and Retreat Ministry Task Force has begun the next phase of its work following direction from the 2026 Northern Illinois Annual Conference. Th…

New Ac Secretary Image

Welcoming Our New Annual Conference Secretary

After six years of faithful service as Annual Conference Secretary, Randy Hayes is stepping down from the role due to health concerns. Bishop Dan Schwerin, in consultation with the…

Print