Wednesday, May 11, 2011

the Buddha's birthday bash

Last week was the Buddha's birthday, which means that school was cancelled for two days and tens of thousands of people descended upon Seoul to take part in the cultural festivities. We, of course, were in the thick of it...

Saturday night had a huge parade that marched down the main street of Seoul with (estimated) 15,000 people in traditional Korean costume and carrying lanterns of all shapes and sizes. (pictures will be posted) The lantern floats were magical. After everyone had marched to the temple, groups of musicians playing traditional instruments played for the crowds in the street. It didn't take much encouraging to get me out there with them dancing. (It took a little more encouragment to get Justin to dance. Apparently, there is no photographic proof however-boo!) So now one of my life-long dreams has come true-I got to dance in the streets at a big festival.=)

The next day was filled with lots booths lining the streets. Most of them were lotus lantern making (which was lame), but we did take advantage of: free acupuncture (twice), tie-die scarf making, calligraphy, more calligraphy that a crusty old man did for us, incense making, and lots of traditional dancing/music. Our last stop before we headed home was the beautiful Buddhist temple (largest of it's kind in the world). We walked among ancient architecture, beautifully painted facades, and a really big tree. Afterward we came home exhausted, but happy we were taking advantage of our new city.

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