The Japan-America Society of DFW (JASDFW) will host its largest Otsukimi Japanese Moon Viewing Festival on Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Haggard Park in Plano. The free, family-friendly event will feature a diverse lineup of performances, demonstrations, and cultural activities, underscoring the increasing prominence of Japanese culture in North Texas. Otsukimi, meaning "moon viewing," is a centuries-old Japanese autumn tradition that celebrates the beauty of the moon, the changing season, and community. By bringing this tradition to Plano, JASDFW aims to foster cross-cultural understanding and provide a platform for local Asian American artists and businesses.
The festival's entertainment schedule includes taiko drumming by Dallas Kiyari Daiko at 6:00 p.m. and 7:40 p.m. on the Main Stage and Martial Arts area, sumo wrestling demonstrations by the Dallas Sumo Club at 6:20 p.m., 8:00 p.m., and 8:50 p.m. in the Martial Arts area, a Ghibli song concert at 6:30 p.m. on the Main Stage, a children's chorus concert by the Dallas Cherry Blossom Children's Chorus at 7:00 p.m. on the Main Stage, Okinawan dance by Okinawa Eisa Ryukyu-damashii at 7:40 p.m. on the Main Stage, a live JPOP concert by Sallad at 8:20 p.m. on the Main Stage, and an anime appearance and screening with English voice actor Emi Lo, known for voicing Maomao, at 9:10 p.m. on the Main Stage. Plano Mayor John B. Muns will be onsite to welcome festival guests. Admission and parking are free, and guests are encouraged to register in advance for their free tickets to be entered for a chance to win door prizes and receive festival updates.
Beyond performances, the festival will offer Japanese cultural experiences, art and cultural vendors, family activities, games, bounce houses, and a wide variety of food vendors serving authentic Japanese, Asian, and American cuisine in the SpotOn Food Pavillion. The event is supported by Toyota as Community Impact Partner and key sponsors including SpotOn, H-E-B, Kawai, 7-Eleven, NEC, i Fratelli Pizza, The Original Pancake House DFW, EZ On Coat, The Time Group, and FC Dallas. This broad corporate backing reflects the economic and cultural vitality of the Asian American community in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The festival's free admission ensures accessibility for all, promoting inclusivity and cultural exchange. For more information about the Japan-America Society of DFW, visit their official website. The Otsukimi Festival not only celebrates Japanese heritage but also strengthens the bonds between Japan and North Texas, making it a significant cultural event for the region.
