17th Annual Aki Matsuri Japanese Festival

Celebrate Japanese culture, food, music, and community at the 17th Annual Aki Matsuri Japanese Festival in Henderson. This free, family-friendly celebration returns to Water Street Plaza on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Presented by the Japanese Festival Association of Nevada, Aki Matsuri brings Japanese traditions to life through cultural performances, activities, food vendors, community exhibits, and live entertainment. “Aki Matsuri” means autumn festival, making this a colorful way to welcome the fall season in Southern Nevada.

View Official Festival Information

Aki Matsuri Japanese Festival Event Details

• Event: 17th Annual Aki Matsuri Japanese Festival
• Date: Saturday, October 10, 2026
• Time: 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Admission: Free
• Venue: Water Street Plaza
• Address: 240 S. Water St., Henderson, NV 89015
• Organizer: Japanese Festival Association of Nevada
• Age Restriction: All ages are welcome
• Official Website: Aki Matsuri Nevada

The detailed 2026 stage schedule and complete list of performers, vendors, and activities will be announced closer to the festival.

What to Expect at Aki Matsuri

Aki Matsuri offers a full day of Japanese culture and community celebration in the heart of Henderson. Visitors can explore performances and demonstrations across multiple stages while discovering Japanese traditions through music, dance, art, food, and interactive activities.

Festival attractions may include:

• Traditional and contemporary Japanese music
• Cultural dance performances
• Japanese arts and demonstrations
• Community exhibits and activities
• Authentic Japanese food and beverages
• Local businesses and merchandise vendors
• Family-friendly entertainment
• The Nevada Ondo community dance
• The annual Haiku Contest

Specific performances and activities are subject to change. Check the official festival website before attending for the latest schedule.

Japanese Food, Shopping, and Vendors

Come hungry because food is an important part of the Aki Matsuri experience. Festival vendors are expected to offer an assortment of Japanese dishes, snacks, sweets, and drinks throughout the day.

Guests can also browse booths featuring merchandise, crafts, artwork, community organizations, and products inspired by Japanese culture. Food and merchandise are not included with free admission and must be purchased directly from participating vendors.

Popular vendors may experience long lines during peak dining hours, so consider arriving early or eating outside the busiest lunch and dinner periods.

Martin Koleff’s Memorial Sake Pavilion

Adult guests can learn about Japanese sake and other specialty beverages at Martin Koleff’s Memorial Sake Pavilion. The tasting experience is co-hosted by the Japanese Festival Association of Nevada and the Consulate-General of Japan in San Francisco.

The pavilion promotes an appreciation for Japanese alcoholic beverages and the traditions surrounding them.

Please note: Guests must be at least 21 years old and present valid government-issued identification to participate in alcohol tastings. Tasting tickets or additional charges may apply.

Experience the Aki Matsuri Japanese Festival

Watch the video below for a look at the performances, traditions, food, and community spirit that make Aki Matsuri a popular Henderson cultural celebration.

Performers, Vendors, Volunteers, and Sponsors

Aki Matsuri invites performers, food vendors, general vendors, volunteers, sponsors, and community supporters to help make the festival possible.

Applications for 2026 vendors and performers are scheduled to be accepted from July 1 through September 10, 2026. Space may be limited, and submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance.

Volunteer opportunities and sponsorship packages are also available. Visit the official festival website for current applications, requirements, deadlines, and contact information.

Festival Applications and Information

Parking and Transportation

Free public parking is available throughout the Water Street District. The Water Street Parking Garage is directly across from the plaza, with additional public parking garages and surface parking areas located nearby.

Parking closest to the venue may fill quickly, especially during the afternoon and evening. Arrive early and allow additional time to walk from your parking location.

Rideshare passengers should select a safe drop-off and pickup location near Water Street Plaza without blocking festival entrances or traffic.

Las Vegas Parking Fees & Information

Know Before You Go

• Admission is free, but bring money or a payment card for food, beverages, merchandise, and specialty activities.
• Arrive early to find convenient parking and explore the festival before the busiest hours.
• Wear comfortable shoes because the event involves considerable walking and standing.
• Check the weather forecast and bring sunscreen, a hat, and water for daytime activities.
• Bring valid identification if you plan to enter the sake-tasting area.
• Children should remain with a parent or guardian throughout the festival.
• Review the official website for the performance schedule and event policies before leaving home.
• Accessibility arrangements and event-specific rules may vary by activity.

Celebrate Japanese Culture at Aki Matsuri 2026

Enjoy a free day of Japanese music, dancing, food, arts, and community festivities at the 17th Annual Aki Matsuri Japanese Festival. Make plans to visit Water Street Plaza in Henderson on October 10, 2026.

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