Washington, DC's Sakura Matsuri - Japanese Street Festival

The Sakura Matsuri is a Japanese Street Festival that is designed to let visitors experience Japanese culture with a variety of activities and events such as arts & crafts, shopping, live entertainment, and great food! It has quickly become one of the most popular events of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. This year it will be held in April at 12th Street & Pennsylvania Ave, NW. Started by the Japan-America Society of Washington, it began in 1961 and attracted a couple thousand attendees. Today with it's fun and unique experiences, it draws crowds of over 50,000 people. Here is what you can expect to experience at the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival.

Arts and Crafts

• Visitors not only get to view arts traditional to Japan, but are able to interact with hands-on activities. Experience the elegance of Japanese woodworking, the exquisite craftsmanship and beauty of Kimekomi dolls which are made by hand, and learn how to create delicate washi paper. There is also special children's area which allows them to interact and participate with hands-ont activities including origami, calligraphy, and Japanese storytelling.

Ginza Arcade

• Experience the hustle and bustle with this recreation of Japan's most famous shopping area Ginza. Here you'll find a wide range of items including t-shirts, kimonos, antiques, souvenirs, and other treasures. This is a shopping paradise! In addition to the unique Japanese items for sale, other participants in the National Cherry Blossom Festival are on hand to provide information and about their products and services.

Performing Arts and Martial Arts

• A wide variety professional and amateur dancers, musicians, entertainers, martial artists, and vocalists from all over Japan and the United States take the stage to entertain you. Performances include both traditional and contemporary styles. In addition to the music, singing, and dancing, a wide range of martial arts will be demonstrated including kendo, judo, kyudo, naginata, and aikido.

Taste of Japan

• Taste some of the traditional and authentic Japanese cuisine showcased at Sakura Matsuri. With fresh seafood, sushi, and unique noodle dishes, you'll enjoy some of the best Japanese food around. Favorites from the festival include takoyaki (fried octopus) and buckwheat noodles called yakisoba. Traditional Japanese candy and treats will also be on hand for the children and even adults to enjoy.

The Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival is a great way to experience and celebrate the unique culture of Japan. With arts and crafts, shopping, entertainment, and fantastic food, this festival provides great fun and an important learning experience for the entire family.