Japan Fest Presented by Hancock Whitney

Join us Saturday, October 10th, for the 32nd year of Japan Fest Presented by Hancock Whitney! Celebrate Japanese culture through art, performances, food, and more at this beloved annual event organized by NOMA, the Japan Club of New Orleans, and the Consulate General of Japan in Nashville. Sample Japanese cuisine, enjoy traditional dance groups, martial arts demonstrations, and tours throughout the day. Shop a variety of vendors offering unique goods in a festive atmosphere. Costumes are welcome, please see costume guidelines below. Please note: The expansion of the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is not included in the Japan Fest festivities but will be open to the general public. Get Tickets Tickets for Japan Fest are $10 General Admission, $5 for NOMA members, and free for attendees 19 years old and under Tickets for Japan Fest Presented by Hancock Whitney will be available for purchase soon. Please check this page for updates. Pre-purchasing Japan Fest tickets online is strongly recommended. Tickets will also be available for purchase at Japan fest in front of the main gate of the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, as well as at the admissions desk in the Great Hall. Festival Schedule The full event schedule for Japan Fest 2026 will be available soon. Please check this page for updates. Start Time Event and Location 10:00 am 10:30 am 11:00 am 11:30 am 12:00 pm 12:30 pm 1:00 pm 1:30 pm 2:00 pm 2:30 pm 3:00 pm 3:30 pm 4:00 pm Participants Please note: some vendors for Japan Fest accept cash only. Cash is recommended for making purchases at the festival. Participating Food Vendors, Merchandise Vendors, Performers, Tours, Tablers and Workshop Hosts will be announced soon. Please check this page for updates. Costume Guidelines For the safety and comfort of all guests, as well as the artwork at NOMA: Costume masks that obstruct or cover the wearer’s face are prohibited. Face masks covering the nose and mouth for health reasons are welcomed but not required. Accessories or toy weapons, such as swords, greater than 2 feet in length are not permitted. No sharp objects are allowed. Costume components cannot extend more than 2 feet in length from the body. Please keep all costumes family friendly. Other restrictions may apply at NOMA’s discretion. A check room will be available for any items not in compliance. For questions regarding costumes, please call 504.658.4100. Please note: admission is required for fashion show participants. Sponsors Additional sponsors to be announced soon. Please check this page for updates.