Japan Parade & Street Fair 2026
Calla Kessler/AP Content Services for Japan Day, Inc.
Bring the whole family to the Japan Parade & Street Fair on Central Park West.
Each year, a celebration of Japanese heritage, art, tradition and food takes place right outside of Central Park at the Japan Parade & Street Fair. This rich cultural event connects New Yorkers and NYC visitors with the local Japanese community.
Japan Parade
The Japan Parade heads south along Central Park West from 81st Street to 67th Street, showcasing traditional and contemporary Japanese culture through dance, music, martial arts, and colorful costumes.
Japan Street Fair
There will also be a Japan Street Fair on 72nd Street between Central Park West and Columbus Ave. Here you can indulge in delicious traditional Japanese foods, browse art, learn about history, shop for treasures, and participate in cultural activities like calligraphy, origami, and other family-friendly entertainment.
Event Info & Times
- Opening Ceremony: 12:30 PM at the Grandstand Area (Central Park West btw 70th & 71st Street).
- Parade: 1:00 PM at 81st Street, traveling south down Central Park West to 67th Street.
- Street Fair: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on 72nd Street btw Central Park West & Columbus Avenue.
- Grand Marshal: Acky Bright, internationally acclaimed manga artist known for his intricate line work and "kawakakkoii" (cute and cool) aesthetic.
- Official Mascot: Happi, the first-ever official Japan Parade mascot, designed by Grand Marshal Acky Bright. Happi draws on the cultures of both New York and Japan, incorporating the city's colors of orange and navy, the red and white of Japan, the iconic NYC apple, and the traditional Japanese happi coat. The name was chosen by public contest.
This is a FREE event.