Twelfth Night and the Arrival of Spring

Twelfth Night marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas and the coming of spring. It is a time to celebrate new beginnings and rebirth when people of different cultures come together to honor the changing seasons. At the Smithsonian Libraries, this time of year is extraordinary as it is celebrated with a unique blend of the Shakespearean traditions of the Folger Shakespeare Library and the Japanese culture of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

A Blend of Traditions

The Smithsonian Libraries’ celebration of Twelfth Night combines fascinating cultural traditions. Inspired by the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes place in Washington, D.C., every spring, the library’s Twelfth Night celebration puts a Japanese spin on Shakespearean festivities.

One of the highlights of the Twelfth Night celebration is the Japanese tea ceremony, where guests are served traditional bubble tea. Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, originated in Taiwan but has become increasingly popular in Japan and other countries. The tea is made with black tea, milk, and sweetened tapioca balls, creating a refreshing and unique drink that perfectly complements the cherry blossom theme.

Another aspect of the Smithsonian Libraries’ Twelfth Night celebration is the Cherry Blossom Quest. This scavenger hunt takes guests on a tour of the historic buildings and collections of the Folger Shakespeare Library. During this tour, guests are tasked with finding hidden cherry blossom images throughout the library and discovering new and exciting aspects of the collection along the way.

Finally, the main event of the Smithsonian Libraries’ Twelfth Night celebration is a performance of a Shakespearean play, typically one of the bard’s comedies. This performance occurs in the beautiful Folger Theatre, a replica of an Elizabethan playhouse. The performance is accompanied by live music, another nod to the Japanese influence on the celebration.

In conclusion, the Smithsonian Libraries’ celebration of Twelfth Night is a unique and vibrant blend of different cultural traditions. By combining the Shakespearean traditions of the Folger Shakespeare Library with the Japanese culture of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, the libraries have created an unforgettable event that truly celebrates the coming of spring. So why not join in the festivities and discover the magic of Twelfth Night at the Smithsonian Libraries?