Kakizome 2026
Melissa Dvozenja-Thomas, Executive Director, Arts Mid-Hudson
This time of year naturally invites reflection—on what we’ve accomplished, the places we’ve gone, and the people we’ve shared time with. As the new year approaches, many of us write resolutions, set intentions, or make wish lists of what we hope to change. A few years ago, I shifted my approach to this ritual. Instead of drafting a list of specific goals, I choose a single word to guide me through the year. That one word becomes a touchstone, helping to shape my choices and focus my energy. I was first introduced to this idea through Kakizome at Arts Mid-Hudson, a traditional Japanese New Year’s practice that beautifully combines reflection, artistry, and intention.
In Japan, people express their hopes for the coming year through kakizome, the ritual “first writing” of the year. Traditionally held in the first days of January, kakizome once involved composing a short, poetic calligraphy piece describing one’s aspirations. These writings were later burned, a symbolic gesture believed to help carry the wishes into reality.
While modern practice has evolved, the heart of the tradition remains the same. Today, instead of full poems, many people choose a single auspicious kanji (Chinese character) to write. This character represents what they hope to invite into their lives—health, courage, peace, patience, or perhaps creativity. By repeatedly writing this one character with care and intention, the writer focuses on that wish, allowing it to take root in their thoughts and actions throughout the year.
If you hope for good health, you might choose the kanji associated with vitality or wellness. If you want to cultivate patience, you might write the kanji for “tolerance” or “acceptance.” Kakizome is less about artistic perfection and more about mindful expression. It’s a personal, meditative way to step into the new year with clarity and hope.
For more than a decade, Arts Mid-Hudson’s Folk Arts Program has partnered with the Mid-Hudson Japanese Community Association (MHJCA) to share this meaningful tradition with residents of the Hudson Valley. MHJCA, a not-for-profit organization, is dedicated to introducing Japanese culture to the local community, fostering unity among Japanese residents, and encouraging cultural exchange between Japanese and non-Japanese neighbors. Through educational programs, cultural presentations, and language classes for children and adults, they help build bridges of understanding across cultures.
This year, everyone is invited to experience Kakizome 2026 at Arts Mid-Hudson in Poughkeepsie on Saturday, January 10. Volunteers from the local Japanese community will be on hand to help you choose a kanji that reflects your hopes, guide you in how to write it, and explain its meaning. All materials—brushes, paper, and ink—will be provided. The event is free and will take place from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. You can register in advance to reserve a spot, but walk-ins are warmly welcomed.
Consider bringing your friends and family together to start a new tradition. As we say goodbye to 2025, what single word—or wish—will guide you into 2026?
If you go:
Kakizome 2026
Saturday, January 10, 2026
1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Arts Mid-Hudson, 696 Dutchess Turnpike, Suite F, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603
To Register: www.artsmidhudson.org/kakizome
Contact: info@artsmidhudson.org
845-454-3222
