Japanese Friendship Garden located at 303 E Main St was a gift from Fort Wayne's sister city, Takaoka, JapanJapanese culture may not be the first thing you think of when you think about Fort Wayne, but we’re going to change that.

The Japanese American Association of Indiana, in partnership with Fort Wayne Dance Collective, Fort Wayne Sister Cities International Inc, Allen County Public Library, and IPFW-Japanese Saturday School will present the 7th Annual Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival on Sunday May 19. 

The beautiful Allen County Public Library’s main branch will be the home of this free event for the public. The annual spring festival not only celebrates the blooming of Japan’s unofficial national flower, but also celebrates our city’s ties to Japan. Fort Wayne has been a sister city to Takaoka, Japan since 1977 and the US home for many Japanese companies. Opening ceremonies will include Minyo Japanese Folk Dancers, Suzuki Strings playing the Star Spangled Banner and the Japanese National Anthem, as well as an official proclamation from Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry. cherry

A variety of artists and events will take place at the festival, including a variety of musicians, singers, and dance groups. Arts and crafts of the Japan Marketplace will also be available for your shopping pleasure.  Art contests and costume contests for students wearing costumes depicting their favorite anime character will also take place.  Enjoy the Tastes of Japan with sushi, yakitori, and Japanese goodies.  Hands on demonstrations of Bonsai, Origami, and Japanese Goldfish Catch will also take place throughout the afternoon.

Admission is free for the event and street parking around the library is also free on the weekends. Learn more here.