Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival

Sakura, Sumo, and Sake return April 11 – 12, 2025

The Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival returns on April 11-12, 2025, in Hot Springs, offering a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture. Sponsored by the Hot Springs National Park Sister City Foundation, this free, family-friendly event invites attendees to immerse themselves in the beauty and traditions of Japan through cultural displays, interactive games, and demonstrations.

Festival Highlights

Date: Saturday, April 12, 2025, 10:30 – 5:50
Location: Hot Springs, Arkansas
Admission: FREE

Live Performances & Demonstrations (10:30 AM – 5:30 PM)

St. Louis Osuwa Taiko & Central Arkansas Taiko – Experience the thunderous beats of traditional Japanese drumming performances.
Masae Satouchi Dance Performances – Witness the elegance of Japanese dance accompanied by Dr. Kae Hashimoto Reed.
Music & Emcee by Rural War Room – Enjoy an eclectic soundtrack throughout the festival.
Anime Cosplay Contest – Show off your best cosplay for a chance to win prizes! Presented in partnership with the Garland County Library. Onsite registration required with judging at 4:30.
Haiku Competition Winners Announcement – Celebrate the beauty of Japanese poetry.

The festival will also feature a variety of hands-on workshops and cultural exhibits, including Kintsugi, Ikebana, the Traditional Tea Ceremony, Yukata, and Manga & Meditation Sessions. (Complete workshop details and registration link below.)
Additionally, visitors can enjoy children’s festival games, kimono and Japanese arts exhibits, and a cherry blossom postcard display.

This festival is a must-attend event for anyone passionate about Japanese culture, from families and artists to history buffs!

The Silent Auction is LIVE!

Support cultural exchange, student scholarships, and keep the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival FREE for everyone to enjoy—one bid at a time!
From getaway vacations in Tuscany, the Caribbean, and Munich to local dinners, fine jewelry, art, self-care packages, LEGO® party and prints, sake sets, and more—you won’t want to miss these one-of-a-kind items!
BID NOW and help us build bridges between Arkansas and Japan. Just click on this link to access https://givebutter.com/c/CherryBlossomFestival/auction
Every bid supports the Hot Springs National Park Sister City Foundation and our mission of connection through culture. The items will be on display at the Festival.

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SakeFest – A Celebration of Sake

After a full day of cultural festivities, join us for SakeFest Hot Springs on Saturday, April 12, following the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival at 6:30.

This exciting event, presented by the Sake Brewers Association of North America, brings together the largest gathering of North American sake brewers, featuring expertly crafted sakes from across the continent. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to sake, this is an unmissable opportunity to explore the flavors, craftsmanship, and artistry of this iconic Japanese beverage.

Tickets: Get Your Tickets Here!

Sample a variety of premium sakes, meet the brewers, and immerse yourself in an unforgettable evening of Japanese tradition and hospitality.

All Star Sumo Returns to Hot Springs on April 11!

Get ready for an electrifying night of sumo action as All Star Sumo makes its thrilling return to Hot Springs! On Friday, April 11, at 7:30 PM, six world-class sumo champions will go head-to-head in a rapid-fire, nonstop round-robin tournament at Hot Springs Bank OZK Arena. Witness the power, speed, and strategy of the best sumo competitors in the world as they battle for the prestigious Hot Springs Cup. Don’t miss your chance to experience this iconic sport up close—secure your tickets now! Get Tickets Here!

Join us for a weekend of cultural exploration and celebration, as we continue to build on the strong ties between Arkansas and Japan.
Don’t miss the chance to experience Japan right here in Arkansas!

Workshops – There’s something for everyone

Discover the rich traditions of Japanese culture through a variety of engaging workshops at the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival!
Whether you’re interested in traditional arts, hands-on experiences, or cultural performances, there’s something for everyone.
Reserve your spot today!

Yukata Experience
10:00 AM
Learn how to wear a yukata, Japan’s summertime kimono, with licensed kimono dresser Masae Satouchi. Participants can wear their yukata throughout the festival.Cost: $50 (includes yukata rental) / $30 (if bringing your own yukata, obi, and koshihimo)

Tea Ceremony
10:30 AM | 11:45 AM | 1:00 PM | 2:15 PM | 3:30 PM
Join Jennifer Huffman for an immersive experience in Chado, the Way of Tea. Enjoy handmade Japanese sweets while discovering the balance of tradition and hospitality. Cost: $45 per person

Ikebana – The Art of Floral Arrangement
11:00 AM Advanced | 2:00 PM Beginners
Explore the elegance of Ikebana, the Japanese art of floral arrangement, with expert instructor Amira Matsuda. Learn to create harmonious compositions reflecting nature’s beauty.Cost: $25 per person Optional Items: Hasami clippers ($25), Kenzan floral base ($20)

Kintsugi – The Art of Repair
11:00 AM | 2:00 PM
Discover the 14th-century Japanese art of kintsugi, mending broken vessels with lacquer and gold. Participants will repair a hand-thrown tea bowl and learn the philosophy behind this beautiful tradition. Cost: $60 per person

Taiko Drumming
11:15 AM | 1:15 PM
Feel the energy of taiko drumming in this hands-on workshop led by Central Arkansas Taiko with special input from St. Louis Osuwa Taiko. Open to all ages (children under 12 must be accompanied by a registered parent). Cost: $20 per person

Manga – Japanese Comics and Culture
11:15 AM
Join Dr. Kae Hashimoto Reed for an insightful journey into the world of manga, exploring its historical roots and cultural impact.Cost: $5 per person

Zen Meditation
12:30 PM | 2:30 PM
Experience the tranquility of Zen meditation with members of the Hot Springs Buddhist Society. Learn mindfulness techniques and embrace inner harmony.Cost: Free (Limited Seating)

Secure your place in these unique workshops and immerse yourself in Japanese culture at the Arkansas Cherry Blossom Festival!
Spaces are limited, so sign up today!

Workshop Registration Sign Up