Georgia’s JapanFest, one of the country’s largest Japanese cultural festivals, every year draws close to 20,000 visitors wanting to experience Japanese culture in a relaxed and familiar environment.
This year Georgia celebrates its 26th year of the festival on Saturday, September 15 (10 am – 6 pm) and Sunday, September 16 (10 am – 5 pm). The venue is Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, Georgia.
JapanFest is an annual celebration of Japanese culture designed to promote understanding between Japanese and Americans in the Southeast.
It is two days of immersing oneself in Japanese culture, dance and music; learning the intricate maneuvers of martial arts such as sumo, aikido, judo, karate, kendo or kyudo; sampling authentic Japanese foods from the region’s best restaurants; shopping at dozens of vendors booths; enjoying more than 50 performances and workshops; and appreciating product displays from Japanese companies in Georgia, the only such display in the United States.
JapanFest will feature a variety of musical performances sure to suit all ages and interests, including taiko drumming, J-Rock and J-Pop, and classical music.
Dance performances will include both traditional and modern Japanese dance, as well as traditional Okinawan dance. All are invited to join in the spirited Bon dance!
Whether the visitors’ interest lies in the intricate embroidery that decorates a finely woven kimono, the mechanics of a Japanese kite, or the art of caring for a bonsai tree, there is something for everyone.
Tickets are $8. Children age 6 or younger free. Teachers can bring their students to JapanFest for free by applying online at www.japanfest.org. Larger organizations can save money by purchasing advanced ticket packages online.
JapanFest is organized by The Japan-America Society of Georgia and The Japanese Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, with the help of over 150 dedicated volunteers. Gwinnett County is just 25 minutes northeast of Atlanta.
Visit www.japanfest.org for more information.
For more information about top events in Georgia take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Georgia.