The Summer Festival or ‘natsu matsuri’ is an annual event throughout Japan and comes to life once more here on 2 February 2014 at the Federation Square.
Since its inception in 2010, the festival has grown enormously, doubling its attendance to reach 10,000 people in 2011. Traditionally held to honour one’s ancestors, the festival features the ‘bon odori’, a dance performed in a circle whilst wearing cotton kimono known as ‘yukata’.
At the Melbourne festival, visitors are encouraged to learn and join in the dance. In addition, the festival showcases a number of performances, including Taiko Drumming, Shamisen and martial arts.
The festival will also be packed with a wide range of stalls with traditional Japanese games, activities and food – including the favourites sushi, okonomiyaki and bento.
Another big attraction of the day will be the chance to win one of the fantastic raffle prizes, including the first prize to fly to Japan!
For details, please check: http://jcci-jsm.org.au/fest/festival-info/general-information/
Or check their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/JapaneseSummerFestival
