Plano to Host Largest Otsukimi Japanese Moon Viewing Festival Sept 26

The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth, in partnership with the City of Plano, will host the 27th Annual Otsukimi Japanese Moon Viewing Festival on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Haggard Park in Plano, Texas. Admission is free and open to all ages, making it a perfect family-friendly event. This year's celebration promises to be the largest yet, bringing the North Texas community together to experience Japanese culture through traditional and contemporary entertainment, hands-on activities, food, and family fun under the autumn moon.

Festival highlights include spectacular taiko drum performances, Japanese anime and pop culture experiences, sumo wrestling demonstrations, free children's games, live music, traditional Japanese dance, an expanded food pavilion featuring authentic Japanese and Asian cuisine, martial arts demonstrations, and various hands-on cultural activities. Otsukimi, meaning "moon viewing," is a centuries-old Japanese tradition celebrating the beauty of the autumn moon with seasonal foods, music, and gatherings. Guests can view the event flyer for more details. To receive festival updates and a chance to win special prizes, visitors are encouraged to reserve free tickets in advance. Additionally, businesses and organizations interested in sponsoring or vending can apply through the provided links. For more information, visit www.jasdfw.org.

Grant Ogata, President of the Japan-America Society, expressed excitement about expanding the festival with more entertainment and cultural experiences throughout the park. This annual event not only celebrates Japanese heritage but also fosters cross-cultural understanding and community bonding in North Texas. By attending, participants can immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience that highlights the beauty and diversity of Japanese traditions, from sumo to anime, all while enjoying a festive atmosphere suitable for all ages.