The annual Arizona Matsuri is in its 32nd year and is the largest Japanese festival (matsuri) in Arizona.

“Featuring Japanese exhibits, demonstrations, arts and crafts, children’s activities, bonsai displays, Japanese food, Japanese beer and sake garden, games and contests, and live entertainment on 4 stages throughout Heritage & Science Park in downtown Phoenix.

The theme for the 2016 Arizona Matsuri will be Momotarō (Peach-Boy), a popular hero of Japanese folklore,”

Performing this year  as usual will be Tucson’s taiko drumming troupe Odaiko Sonora on Feb. 27 at 11:00 a.m. at the ASU Stage.  Also performing on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at the Plaza Stage (6th St. x Adams)  is Tucson’s traditional Japanese dance troupe Suzuyuki Kai​ lead by Mari Kaneta.  They also perform Nihon Buyo (classical dance) at the same stage on Sunday Feb. 28 at 1:45 p.m.

More info at www.azmatsuri.org.