A musician plays a Shakuhachi, or flute from the lower part of a bamboo plant, during a recent Oshogatsu celebration at the Morikami. (Post file photo)

Morikami is banging in the new year with Japanese ceremonies.

Say goodbye to the Year of the Rabbit. 2012 is the Year of the Dragon.

According to Japanese tradition, people born in the Year of the Dragon are healthy, energetic, excitable, short-tempered and stubborn. But they are also honest, sensitive, brave and can inspire trust in most anyone. The dragon is considered by some to be the most peculiar of the 12 signs of the Zodiac cycle.

In Japan, each new year is celebrated with Oshogatsu, a popular family festival and one of the most important annual events in Japanese culture. Locally, it’s one of the Morikami Museum’s most popular festivals.

Directions, nearby dining, invite a friend

The Japanese make special efforts in the final days of December to clear away debts and obligations to start the new year with a clean slate. They gather at shrines and temples and greet the stroke of midnight with exclamations of Happy New Year. They send New Year’s greetings on postcards, prepare special meals, decorate trees and visit loved ones.

The 35th annual Oshogatsu Celebration at Morikami features performances by a lion dancer; taiko drumming; the pounding of the rice and making of mochi (large, round Japanese cakes); musical performances; Japanese fortune telling (additional $1 charge ); Sado Tea ceremonies ($5); calligraphy (fee); and games.

Visitors can also relax in the Kirin Beer Garden, grab a bite in the Cornell Café and browse the wares of vendors located throughout the grounds.

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

Where: Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach

Admission: $10 adults; $5 ages 4-17; free for museum members and children 3 and younger

Info: (561) 495-0233; www.morikami.org