Activities



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A poetry scroll that says "Peace for the World" in English.

KITES are provided, so no need to bring your own kite. You receive a swallow-shaped, artist-made kite from an elder in the Wish-making Pavilion. Then you write your heartfelt wish on it, get it stamped with an official seal, learn a few kite-flying tips, and you’re off! Fly your wish with the other wishers on the Great Lawn to create an evolving mobile of birds in the sky. Let the wind lift your heart. When you’re done just return your kite so that someone else will have a chance to fly their wish. Read a selection of past wishes.

WIND CHIMES hang in a large bamboo sculpture called the House to Touch the Wind. They create a magical musical backdrop that enchants the day. Go in and play the chimes. You hear and touch the wind, and the wind lifts all of our wishes.

POETRY SCROLLS, back in the Wish-making Pavilion, hang quietly and ask you to learn how to read a newly-invented language. On first glance, it looks like ancient Chinese, but look closer, and you’ll be surprised. Profound poems, funny sayings, famous words wait for you to re-discover them.

The FLYING OF THE FIRST WISHES is the opening ceremony. At 11:00 AM we read and fly two wishes—from the eldest Minnesotan and the family of the first born in Saint Paul that morning.

The OPEN DRUM CIRCLE FINALE is a rousing close to the day. Join in and learn how to stay together, be as one, and make a great noise! The red finale kite is raised to signal the end of our annual day of wishing.

Your participation makes the work of art. Let’s make great art together.

This is a rain or shine event so come prepared for the weather. The ground may be soggy. Wear sturdy shoes. Local and organic food options will be available for sale. If you bring food and drink from home, please keep in mind that this is a Zero Waste event! See the picnic section for tips and ideas about how to pack an earth-friendly zero waste picnic.