Mission Joins in Arts Orange County’s Imagination Celebration: Spring Event to Celebrate Koi Fish in Mission’s Fountains
SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif., January 9, 2009 – Mission San Juan Capistrano will present “Carp” Diem: Koi Culture at the Mission, on Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Two of the Mission’s fountains contain koi fish, and have long been a popular attraction for visitors. The inaugural event will be part of Arts Orange County’s Imagination Celebration, held countywide April 18 – May 17, 2009 (visit www.ocimaginationcelebration.org).
An event focusing on the Mission’s koi is most appropriate, believes Sabrina Irsay, the Mission’s Events Manager. She explained, “The koi in the Mission San Juan Capistrano fountains represent the peace, serenity, longevity and strength of their surroundings. Just as the Mission has stood for over 200 years, the maximum life span of koi can be over 200 years.”
During the event, visitors can enjoy presentations about koi, view paintings of the fish in the Mission’s fountains by noted artists and watch interpretive dances as they portray the grace and beauty the koi evoke. Featured for the day will be Richard Wainwright’s colorfully illustrated book, Royal Koi & Kindred Spirits. Activities for children include making an origami (paper) koi and creating a watercolor koi wash.
Participation in the Mission’s koi event is included in the price of admission to the Mission. Visitors are encouraged to purchase admission tickets online before their visit at www.missionsjc.com. Discount coupons for admission are also available online.
Mission San Juan Capistrano is open 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily. The Mission operations are funded by gate admissions – preservation work is funded by grants and fundraising efforts. To reach the Mission, take I-5 to the Ortega Highway exit to San Juan Capistrano. Admission: $9 adults, $8 seniors, $5 children ages 3-11, and under 3 free. Price includes self-guided, digital audio tour for adults and seniors. Information: (949) 234-1300. Mission address: 26801 Ortega Hwy., San Juan Capistrano. Website: www.missionsjc.com.
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