Nikkei Matsuri returns to Burnaby this weekend for its 14th year. The Japanese Summer Festival runs Friday, Sept. 4 through Sunday, Sept. 6 at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre.
Zenyasai kicks off Friday at 3 p.m. The main festival runs Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Advance tickets are $12 online or $15 at the gate.
The festival features taiko drumming, Bon Odori dancing, a Mikoshi portable shrine procession, and yukata rentals. International guests Shuichiro & Daichi bring shamisen performances from Japan.
Festival schedule
The three-day event runs at 6688 Southoaks Crescent, Burnaby BC V5E 4M7:
- Friday, Sept. 4, 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.: Zenyasai outdoor dance party in the Nikkei Garden featuring local DJs.
- Saturday, Sept. 5, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.: Main festival day one.
- Sunday, Sept. 6, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.: Main festival day two.
The nearest SkyTrain station is Edmonds Station. The walk takes about 15 minutes. Bus route 119 stops at Kingsway and Sperling.
Ticket pricing
Single-day admission options:
- Advance online tickets: $12 plus GST (includes Eventbrite fee)
- General admission at gate: $15 (includes GST)
Tickets are available through the Nikkei Matsuri website. Select your date when purchasing online.
Free admission categories
These groups enter free with valid ID or pass at the gate:
- Children and youth: Under 18
- Seniors: 65 and older
- Nikkei Centre members: Valid membership card
- Tourism Privilege Pass holders: Valid pass
New for 2026: Admission-free Fun Park
The festival expands this year with an admission-free Fun Park community zone. The new area is west of the Nikkei Centre along Southoaks Crescent in Burnaby South Memorial Park, next to the tennis courts.
Limited underground parking is available for a $20 donation on a first-come basis. Organizers recommend public transit.
