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, located at 901 E. 15th Street 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 Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth.
The evening will bring the North Texas community together to experience Japanese culture, traditional and contemporary entertainment, hands-on activities, food and family fun beneath the autumn moon. "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 are scheduled to 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, additional entertainment and activities throughout the evening, and hands-on cultural activities and workshops. 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.
Guests are encouraged to reserve free tickets in advance to receive festival updates and opportunities to win special prizes. Applications are also open for businesses and organizations interested in participating as festival sponsors or vendors. Sponsors will have opportunities to connect with festival attendees through on-site engagement, promotional visibility and recognition associated with one of North Texas' leading Japanese cultural events. Sponsor information is available here, and vendor applications can be submitted here. For festival updates and additional information, visit www.jasdfw.org.
The expansion of this year's festival underscores the growing interest in Japanese culture in North Texas and the importance of community events that foster cross-cultural understanding. By offering free admission, the Japan-America Society ensures accessibility for all, promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange. The festival not only celebrates Japanese traditions but also strengthens ties between the local Japanese community and the broader Dallas/Fort Worth area, highlighting the region's diversity and the value of international friendship.
