The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

DAY OF THE CARP

WHILE LIVING IN JAPAN MY MOTHER OBSERVED THE JAPANESE CELEBRATION
OF THE "DAY OF THE CARP." IN JAPAN THE CARP IS CONSIDERED A VERY
STRONG FISH AND SO A PAPER CARP SHAPED KITE FOR EACH BOY IN THE
FAMILY IS HUNG OUT OF THE WINDOW AND FLOWN TO SYMBOLIZE THEIR WISH
THAT EACH ONE OF THEIR SONS GROWS UP TO BE A STRONG MAN.

Data entry tech comment: TANGO-NO-SEKKU, BOYS' FESTIVAL, CARP FLYING DAY, IN SPICER, DOROTHY.
BOOK OF FESTIVALS.

Where learned: MICHIGAN ; DETROIT

Keyword(s): FLAG OR BANNER

Date learned: 03-30-1968