Nikkei Matsuri: A Japanese Summer Festival Returns with New Expansion

The Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre is thrilled to announce the return of Nikkei Matsuri, Metro Vancouver’s authentic Japanese summer festival. Celebrating its 14th year, the festival will transform the Nikkei Centre (6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby) into a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture on Saturday, September 5 and Sunday, September 6, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

"We're excited to bring the Nikkei Matsuri festival to Burnaby for our 14th year!" says Emily Hirai, Project Manager. "Some of the highlights include over 20 live performances such as taiko drumming, martial arts, Japanese dance and guest musical performers from Japan Shuichiro & Daichi. One of my favourite parts of our festival is the Obon Dance where we invite festival goers to dance with us in a circle. Hundreds of people usually join in as we dance around the garden."

The Kickoff: Matsuri-eve Outdoor Dance Party “Zenyasai”

The festivities begin early with the Zenyasai (meaning "festival eve" or "pre-party") on Friday, September 4, from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Now in its fourth year, Zenyasai offers guests a summer outdoor dance party for all ages in the festive Nikkei Garden, featuring house and techno music from some of Vancouver’s top local and up-and-coming DJs: Time Geometry, O-Shun, Rennie Foster, Soulvent Sound, Byegas, DJ Kosei, Sora and Shin. Festival-goers can enjoy an array of Japanese street food stalls, while adults can unwind in the lively Beer & Sake Garden. Zenyasai Admission: $12 in advance / $15 at the door.

What’s New for 2026

This year, Nikkei Matsuri is expanding beyond its traditional borders. The festival expands with an admission-free Fun Park community zone showcasing the diversity of the Japanese Canadian community. The expansion also features cultural activities, and a kids' crafts corner with activities like origami and face painting. Find this new zone west of the Nikkei Centre along Southoaks Crescent (in Burnaby South Memorial Park next to the tennis courts).

In addition to showcasing local performers, the festival is proud to host special guest shamisen players Shuichiro & Daichi travelling from Japan for a rare performance.

Festival Highlights:

● Japanese Culture: Witness the lively Mikoshi (portable shrine) procession and participate in the Bon Odori dance around the festival’s central Yagura tower. Yukata (summer kimono) rentals are available for those who'd like to dress in traditional Japanese festival attire.

● Stage performances: Get ready to be entertained by over twenty local performance groups. The lineup features thunderous Taiko drumming, action-packed samurai and ninja shows, traditional Japanese dance, martial arts demonstrations, and a modern J-Pop idol unit.

● Food & Beverages: Taste the flavours of Japan with over 20 food options, including traditional Yatai street food stalls, local food trucks, and the Nikkei Café. Adults can unwind with a drink at the Beer & Sake Garden, while those seeking a quieter moment can relax in the peaceful Tea Lounge.

● Family Fun: Kids can experience classic Japanese festival games like yo-yo balloon fishing and super ball scooping or enjoy custom balloon art. Fans of all ages are also invited to drop in and play at the interactive Pokémon League.

● Shopping: Discover unique treasures from over a dozen vendors. The popular Anime Market returns for its second year, showcasing Japan's latest trends. Shoppers can also hunt for hidden gems at the Otakara Market (Japanese flea market), browse the Marketplace vendors, or explore the curated Museum Shop and Japanese Bookstore.

● Art & History: Dive deeper into Japanese Canadian heritage by exploring our museum exhibits.

Event Details:

Matsuri eve Zenyasai: Friday, September 4, 2026 (3:00 PM – 10:00 PM)

Main Festival Dates: Saturday, September 5 & Sunday, September 6, 2026 (11:00 AM – 7:00 PM)

Location: Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre (6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby, BC)

Daily Admission: Adults: $12 in advance / $15 at the gate

FREE for children/youth (under 18), seniors (over 65), and Nikkei Centre members.

For more information and ticket sales, please visit NIKKEIMATSURI.CA