First held in 1961 as a small members-only event, the Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival is now the largest exhibition of Japanese culture in the United States.

The Sakura Matsuri is held each spring, produced by the Japan-America Society of Washington, DC and is a Premier Event of the overall National Cherry Blossom Festival. The Sakura Matsuri regularly attracts over 40,000 attendees across both days.

Since 2018, the Sakura Matsuri has been held on Pennsylvania and Constitution Avenues, NW between 3rd to 7th Streets on the same day of the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Every year, over 120 vendors, exhibitors and performers participate in the Matsuri and share their love of Japanese culture, performance, and food with attendees.

 

2026 Participant Applications Are Now Open!

 

Artisan Vendor

Creators of handmade items inspired by Japanese design or culture.

 

Commercial Vendor

Sellers of Japanese or Japanese-style merchandise, featured in either the Ginza Marketplace or Japan Now areas.

 

Food Vendor 

Providers of freshly prepared Japanese and international foods, as well as select packaged goods. Preference is given to Japanese food vendors.

 

Local Community Exhibitor 

Local groups and organizations showcasing their activities and community impact.

 

Special Cultural Exhibitor 

Nonprofits, academic institutions, and NGOs sharing their role in U.S.–Japan relations.

 

Performing and Martial Arts  

Artists and groups presenting Japanese music, dance, theater, martial arts, and cultural demonstrations.