The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth, in partnership with the City of Plano, will present 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. Admission is free, and the family-friendly festival is open to all ages. This year's celebration is planned to be the largest and most exciting Otsukimi Festival presented by the society, bringing the North Texas community together to experience Japanese culture beneath the autumn moon.
Otsukimi, which translates to "moon viewing," is a traditional Japanese celebration honoring the beauty of the autumn moon. The custom has been observed in Japan for centuries and is often celebrated with seasonal foods, music, artistic performances, and gatherings with family and friends. The festival offers a unique opportunity for business leaders, technology professionals, and the broader community to engage with Japanese cultural traditions, fostering cross-cultural understanding and networking.
“Otsukimi is a special opportunity for families, friends, and visitors of all backgrounds to come together and celebrate the beauty of Japanese culture,” said Grant Ogata, President of the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth. “We are excited to expand this year's festival with more entertainment, activities, food, and cultural experiences than ever throughout the entire park.”
Festival attractions include spectacular taiko drum performances, Japanese anime and pop culture experiences, sumo wrestling demonstrations, free children's games and family activities, live music and traditional Japanese dance, an expanded food pavilion featuring authentic Japanese and Asian cuisine, martial arts demonstrations, and hands-on cultural activities and workshops. This diverse lineup not only entertains but also provides insights into Japanese business etiquette and societal values, which are increasingly relevant in the global tech landscape.
For businesses and organizations, the festival presents significant sponsorship and vendor opportunities. Sponsors can connect with festival attendees through on-site engagement, promotional visibility, and recognition associated with one of North Texas' leading Japanese cultural events. Applications for sponsors and vendors are open; more information is available at the Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth website.
Attendees are encouraged to reserve free tickets in advance to receive festival updates and opportunities to win special prizes. The event's growth reflects the increasing interest in Japanese culture and its influence on global business practices, particularly in technology and innovation. As Texas continues to expand its tech ecosystem, events like Otsukimi offer a platform for cultural exchange that can lead to stronger international partnerships.
The festival will take place at Haggard Park, located at 901 E. 15th Street in Plano. For festival updates and additional information, visit www.jasdfw.org.
