2024 Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix (Bon Dance, J-Pop, Japanese Food, Live Taiko, Games..) 2 DaysNEW

Let's Go to Tanabata! Celebrate Japan’s Star festival by attending a Summer matsuri right out of your favorite anime!

Dress in traditional attire such as a kimono, yukata, or even opt for a light cosplay,* and delve into the vibrant atmosphere of a real nighttime Japanese Summer festival!

Explore the lively corridors adorned with colorful lanterns, bustling with an array of vendors offering delectable food, refreshing shaved ice, and unique merchandise.

Dates
July 6th & 7th, 2024

Time
6pm - 10pm (last admission at 9:30 pm)

*If wearing cosplay, please refrain from bringing props and keep your outfit family friendly.
The first 50 guests each night will get a complimentary special edition uchiwa!

Costs
General $20 / $22 at Gate
Youth 7-17: $18 / $20 at Gate
Under 7: Free
Member $15 / $17 at Gate

Purchase Tickets

What to Expect
Our festival will specifically celebrate Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival, a cherished tradition in Japan for centuries. Typically observed on July 7th, this special day allows the two lovers from the renowned Tanabata myth to reunite by crossing the Milky Way.

To honor this occasion, people write their wishes on small pieces of paper called tanzaku, which are then hung on bamboo branches in hopes that their desires will be granted. Join us in partaking in this activity, and make your wish come true.

Bon Dance
You can also immerse yourself in the pulsating rhythms of taiko drums and partake in the captivating movements of bon dances, another Japanese Summer tradition. Join us in learning this traditional dance as we all gather around the taiko!

J-Pop
To cater to the interests of all Japanese cultural enthusiasts, we have curated our celebration to encompass all things J-pop culture! Experience the thrill of anime culture with dedicated vendors selling homemade wares and officially licensed merch alike!

Food
Enjoy festival favorites like Japanese shave ice, Takoyaki, and other Japanese street foods and sweets from local vendors.

Come and embrace the excitement of Japan's Star Festival in our Summer matsuri, where ancient traditions and contemporary interests intertwine, capturing the essence of modern Japan!

Event Schedule
Enjoy demonstrations throughout the day! All are included with admission.

• Yo-yo Fishing: Partake in this classic matsuri activity!
• Origami / Coloring: Enjoy making kawaii origami lead by our volunteer experts!
• Tanabata Wish: Write your wish on tanzaku paper and hang it on our bamboo trees to make your wish come true.

Programming: Subject to Change*
• TBD - Taiko Performance
Kickstart the evening at the front entrance with the sound of booming taiko!

• TBD - Pikachu Parade!
Join dancing Pikachu on parade through the Garden.

• TBD - Taiko Performance and Bon Dance
Join us for a traditional taiko performance celebrating Obon, a Summer Japanese holiday. Guests will get to not only listen to the performance, but join in on the bon dance as we all dance around the taiko!

Vendors

Food Vendors
• Kakigori Addict​: Takoyaki, kakigori​

And many more coming soon!