Celebrate the vibrant traditions, flavours, and sounds of Japan right here in Burnaby. Returning for its 14th year, Nikkei Matsuri is expanding with more culture, more food, and an all-new community zone.
Whether you’re here for the thunderous taiko drums, the sizzling street food, or dancing in a sea of colourful yukata under the lanterns, there is something for everyone.
Nikkei Matsuri 2026
Zenyasai (Matsuri Eve: Outdoor Dance Party)
Friday, September 4 | 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Kick off the weekend early at our Zenyasai dance party for all ages in the festive Nikkei Garden! Sip, snack, and dance the night away with an incredible evening lineup:
- Live Beats: House and techno music from top local and up-and-coming Vancouver DJs: Time Geometry / O-Shun / Rennie Foster / Soulvent Sound / Byegas / DJ Kosei / Sora / Shin
- Food & Drinks: Enjoy an array of local food and drink vendors in the garden.
Main Festival Highlights
Saturday & Sunday, September 5 & 6 | 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Live Performances: Our stage will host over 20 performances, including the powerful rhythm of Taiko drumming, graceful traditional dance, martial arts, and contemporary J-Pop.
- Food & Beverages: Taste your way through Japan with over 20 food options. Feast on traditional street food from Yatai stalls, sample local food trucks, or drop by the Nikkei Café. Adults can unwind at the Beer & Sake Garden, while those looking for a moment of calm can relax in our peaceful Tea Lounge.
- Japanese Culture & Traditions: Experience the energy of a traditional festival! Witness the lively Mikoshi (portable shrine) procession and join in the Bon Odori dance around the central Yagura tower. Want to dress the part? Yukata (summer kimono) rentals are available on-site!
- Shopping & Markets: Browse the Anime Market (back for its second year with the latest art and collectibles), hunt for hidden gems at the Otakara Market (Japanese flea market), or explore our curated Museum Shop and Japanese Bookstore.
- Family Fun & Heritage: Keep the kids entertained with classic Japanese festival games like yo-yo balloon fishing and super ball scooping. Plus, fans of all ages are welcome to drop in and play at the interactive Pokémon League. Don’t forget to step inside to explore our museum exhibits and dive deeper into Japanese Canadian heritage.
New for 2026: The Festival is Expanding!
Introducing our brand-new, admission-free Fun Park community zone! This year, we are stretching beyond our traditional borders to bring you even more festival fun just west of the Nikkei Centre along Southoaks Crescent (in Burnaby South Memorial Park next to the tennis courts).
- Community Hub: Showcasing the rich diversity of the Japanese Canadian community and cultural activities.
- Kids’ Crafts Corner: A dedicated space for the little ones featuring origami, face painting, and family-friendly activities.
- International Special Guest: We are thrilled to host a group of shamisen players, Shuichiro & Daichi, traveling all the way from Japan for a rare, must-see local performance!
Ticket Pricing
- Tickets are valid for single-day admission. Choose your date when purchasing online.
- Advance Online Tickets: $12
- General Admission: $15
FREE Admission for: Children & Youth (Under 18), Seniors (Over 65), Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre Members*, and Tourism Privilege Pass Holders*. *Valid pass or membership must be presented at the gate.
All festival proceeds benefit the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre’s cultural programs, archives, and educational exhibits.
Event Details
📅 Date:
- Friday, September 4 from 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday, September 5 & 6 from 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre, 6688 Southoaks Cres, Burnaby
🎟️ Tickets & More Info: Nikkei Matsuri
