Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre is excited to bring back Nikkei Matsuri on Labour Day weekend, and this year is extra special as we celebrate Nikkei Centre’s 25th anniversary. Kick things off on Friday, August 29, at Zenyasai, a lively “Matsuri-eve” with DJs, a beer garden, and summer festival vibes. Then join us all weekend on Saturday, August 30 and Sunday, August 31 for Nikkei Matsuri, an authentic Japanese festival experience for the whole family with local performers, martial arts, games, and our new J-Pop Culture Market. You won’t want to miss the wide assortment of delicious Japanese food, drinks and desserts!
Festival Highlights
Enjoy the excitement of the Mikoshi procession and join in the Bon Odori dance around the festival Yagura tower. Don a yukata (summer kimono), available for rent, and experience the festival in traditional Japanese style.
The Main Stage will come alive with dynamic performances, including taiko drumming, elegant dance, martial arts demos, and a special samurai show. You’ll also get to witness a stunning kimono art performance from WA Studio KIWA, visiting from Japan, featuring a dress woven from a thousand wishes. Check out a full list of performers here.
Families can look forward to festival games like yo-yo balloon fishing and super ball scooping, as well as creative activities like origami and watercolour calligraphy. There’s face painting for all ages, and a relaxing community lounge where seniors and families can watch live streamed performances from the Main Stage.
Satisfy your cravings with delicious offerings from Yatai street food stalls in our Outdoor Food Zone, Food Trucks Plaza, and Nikkei Café, and unwind with a cold drink in the Beer & Sake Garden. Shoppers can explore the new J-Pop Culture Market, browse gently used goods at the Otakara Market, and discover books, gifts, and more in the Museum Shop and bookstore.
Throughout the weekend, visitors are also invited to dive deeper into Japanese Canadian heritage by exploring our museum exhibits and archives.
We invite everyone to celebrate and experience Japanese culture in the heart of Burnaby. Our festival is made possible by the generous support of sponsors, donors, volunteers, community partners, and members. All proceeds of the festival provide annual support for NNMCC’s educational, cultural and museum initiatives.
Admission
Admission is free for children under 18, seniors over 65, and NNMCC members. General admission is $15 at the door, or $12 in advance. Join us for a weekend full of culture, connection, and community. Get your tickets today!