Japanese Festival Boston 2018

by Marianne Farrell

Photography courtesy of JapanFestivalBoston on Instagram

For most people, the knowledge about Japanese culture and traditions does not extend too far. However, Japanese culture is rich and vast, so take some time out of your busy schedule to head over to the 2 day long Japanese Festival right in the Boston Common.

The Japanese Festival was first hosted in 2012, and was held in honor of the 100th anniversary of the gift of cherry blossom trees to Washington, D.C. from Kyoto, Boston’s sister city in Japan. Since then, the Festival has been rapidly expanding, and the volunteers that put together this exciting event wanted to give Boston a taste of a real Japanese-style street festival, or as the Japanese call it, Matsuri.

The first day of the Festival focuses on all the amazing Japanese cuisine Americans have come to know and love. Not only will there be scrumptious ramen and sushi, but even more traditional Japanese food such as yakisoba, takoyaki, rice balls, donburi, karaage, Pokki and a fan favorite, Hi-chew. Located right at the Boston Common, come eat all you can fit in your stomach from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., with free admission.

The following day, April 29th, will be the main day of the Festival. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., you can enjoy the sights and sounds of booths selling arts, crafts and authentic Japanese products and others promoting fun Japanese games and one with a silent auction. Other booths will teach people the ancient art of calligraphy, chado, origami and omikoshi. Furthermore, there will be performances and live shows and even a cosplay deathmatch and contest.

Take in the beautiful sights of the Boston Common, grab some delicious food and learn about this old and fascinating culture all right in your own backyard at the Japanese Festival, from April 28th to April 29th.