Akari Dreams - Enchanted Date Night

December 9, 2026 | 6pm - 8pm

Celebrate the holiday sea-zen with a night of enchantment at the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum.

On this evening, we invite you to experience the garden in an entirely new light. Wander the illuminated Lower Garden, including exhibits such as the Kannon Bosatsu and the Azumaya, as symphony harpist, Naomi Alter, fills the garden with music.

Capture the moment with professional photos at the famous Earth Bridge, creating the perfect keepsake from your night. Take in the full experience with Japanese-inspired drinks and hors d’oeuvres.

Whether you’re celebrating love, friendship, or simply enjoying your own company, let the gentle hum of the harp’s music lead you down akari, or glowing, pathways as you experience the holiday magic found throughout the garden.

Tickets 21+ Event

Standard: $80/person

JFGM Members: $70/person

Ticket Includes:

• Hors D’oeuvres and 2 drink tickets (alcohol or non-alcohol) additional drink tickets available for purchase

• Professional photo and poem keepsake

• Access to Lower Garden lightscape and harpist performance 

Linger in the moment. Dream of the Garden. Your date night awaits.

Questions, please email private-events@niwa.org

*This event will take place rain or shine. 

**Refund requests must be submitted in writing via email no less than 30 days prior to the event.

***By purchasing a ticket, I agree and consent to the rules and regulations of the Japanese Friendship Garden & Museum. I acknowledge and give JFGM consent that I may be recorded, videotaped and photographed. I further understand that no compensation will be provided to me for use of my image and that I may not be informed in advance of the specific use of my image.