On Saturday, September 26, 2026, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m., Haggard Park in Plano, Texas, will transform into a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture for the Japan-America Society of DFW's (JASDFW) largest Otsukimi Japanese Moon Viewing Festival. The free, family-friendly event, hosted by Japan-America Society of DFW, will offer an evening filled with performances, demonstrations, games, and cultural experiences that underscore the deepening ties between North Texas and Japan.
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 North Texas, JASDFW provides a unique opportunity for residents to engage with Japanese culture firsthand. The festival's entertainment lineup is headlined by Dallas Kiyari Daiko, who will perform taiko drumming at 6:00 p.m. and 7:40 p.m. on the Main Stage and Martial Arts area. The Dallas Sumo Club will demonstrate sumo wrestling at 6:20 p.m., 8:00 p.m., and 8:50 p.m. in the Martial Arts area, offering a rare glimpse into this ancient sport.
Music lovers can enjoy a Ghibli Song Concert at 6:30 p.m. and a performance by the Dallas Cherry Blossom Children's Chorus at 7:00 p.m., both on the Main Stage. Okinawan dance will be performed by Okinawa Eisa Ryukyu-damashii at 7:40 p.m., followed by a live JPOP concert by Sallad at 8:20 p.m. The evening will conclude with an anime appearance and screening at 9:10 p.m., featuring special guest Emi Lo, the English voice actor behind Maomao.
Plano Mayor John B. Muns will be onsite to welcome festival guests, highlighting the city's support for cultural diversity. Admission and parking are free. Guests are encouraged to register in advance for free tickets to be entered for a chance to win door prizes and receive festival updates.
The festival will also feature Japanese cultural experiences, art and cultural vendors, family activities, and a wide variety of food vendors serving authentic Japanese, Asian, and American cuisine in the SpotOn Food Pavilion. Bounce houses and games will be available at various locations throughout Haggard Park.
The Japan-America Society of DFW recognizes Toyota as its 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. Their support helps make this community celebration possible.
The Otsukimi Festival matters because it fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, offering a free, accessible way for North Texans to experience Japanese traditions. As the region's Japanese-American community grows, events like this strengthen bonds and enrich the cultural fabric of Plano and beyond. For more information, visit the official event page.
