Celebrate Japan's Doll Festival at Duke Gardens

The intimate event at Duke Gardens' teahouse in the Asiatic Arboretum features the patterns and poetry of Chado, or the Japanese "way of tea." Participants will enjoy a bowl of whisked tea and a seasonal treat. The event also will mark Japan's Doll Festival, which celebrates girls and their strength. The festival includes the formal display of dolls and a few will be on display at the tea on Saturday, said Nancy Hamilton, the gardens' cultural programming coordinator.

The first seating for the tea has already sold out, but Hamilton has added a second seating, which starts at 12:15 p.m. and continues to 1:30 p.m.

Hamilton said the tea is probably best for kids ages 5 and up. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and socks since you'll be sitting on the floor.

Tickets are $25 for the general public; $30 for a parent with a child; and $5 for each additional child. To register, call 668-1707.

And don't worry moms of boys ... the boys aren't being left out of the fun. Duke Gardens will host a similar event on May 8 as part of Children's Day, a traditional festival for boys.