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Celebrate autumn on Aquidneck Island with a free, family-friendly outdoor cultural celebration! The 2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival returns to historic Touro Park in Newport on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Hosted by the Japan-America Society of Southern New England, Inc. (JASNE), this open-air festival honors the long-standing Newport-Shimoda Sister City connection and local heritage dating back to Commodore Matthew C. Perry’s historic 1854 expedition.
FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS:
<ul>
 <li>Live Performances:
 Thunderous taiko drum sets and dynamic martial arts demonstrations throughout the day.</li>
 <li>History Tent: Explore fascinating maritime history and trade connections in partnership with the Whitfield-Manjiro Friendship Society, New Bedford Whaling Museum, Wareham Historical Society, and Five College Center for East Asian Studies.</li>
 <li>Youth Crafts Pavilion:
 Hands-on origami paper-folding, traditional brush calligraphy, kite-making, and a popular Kimono photo station.</li>
 <li>Cosplay Parade &amp; Contest:
 The 2nd Annual Cosplay Parade kicks off at 12:30 PM (assembly at 12:15 PM under the tent next to the Commodore Perry Statue). Costumed participants of all ages—and pets—are welcome!</li>
 <li>Food &amp; Artisan Market:
 Taste authentic Japanese-inspired street food from regional vendors and browse handcrafted items from local artisans.</li>
</ul>
EVENT DETAILS:
<ul>
 <li>Admission: FREE and open to the public</li>
 <li>Weather: Rain or shine</li>
 <li>Location: Touro Park, 5 Touro Park St W, Newport, RI</li>
</ul>
<ul>
 <li>Website: <a href="https://www.jasne-janafa.org" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.jasne-janafa.org</a></li>
 <li>Facebook Event Link: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/jasne.janafa" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">www.facebook.com/jasne.janafa</a></li>
</ul>
Supported in part through Discover Newport; Japan Foundation, New York; BankNewport; and the National Association of Japan-America Societies.
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Local Event: 2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival is Back in Newport!

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2nd Annual Japan-America Friendship Festival is Back in Newport!

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