Event Information
Date: Saturday 17 October 2026
Time: 11am – 6pm
Location: Northampton Saints, Weedon Road, Northampton, NN5 5BG
Tickets: £11 / Family: £42 / Under 8s Free Booking Fees Apply

JAPAN FEST BRINGS A CELEBRATION OF JAPANESE CULTURE TO NORTHAMPTON THIS OCTOBER!

Northampton, UK – Saturday 17th October – Japan Fest will arrive in Northampton for the first time this autumn, offering a full day of Japanese culture, entertainment, activities and food at
Northampton Saints from 11am to 6pm.

Japan Fest Northampton is a family-friendly cultural festival celebrating both traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. Visitors can expect live music, traditional performing arts, martial arts, interactive activities, creative workshops and authentic Japanese food, all under one roof. The festival’s main stage will host a varied programme of performances throughout the day, led by Japanese singer-songwriter MION. With a career spanning more than 10 years, MION has performed extensively across Japan and internationally, combining heartfelt lyrics with dynamic
compositions.
Japan Fest favourite LeLe will also take to the stage, performing music in both English and Japanese. Her eight-year career has included appearances across the UK, Australia and Japan, with performances designed to create an immersive and inclusive atmosphere for audiences.
Traditional Japanese music will be represented by Sumie Kent, whose expressive koto performances showcase the delicate sound and intricate techniques of one of Japan’s most iconic instruments.
Leicester Taiko will bring the powerful rhythms of Japanese taiko drumming to Northampton. Led by Kate and Sam, the group combines cultural tradition with modern rhythms to demonstrate the energy, precision and excitement of taiko.

INTERACTIVE ACTIVITIES FOR ALL AGES
Throughout the day, attendees can take part in a selection of hands-on Japanese cultural activities. Visitors can experience the elegance of traditional Japanese clothing with a kimono try-on, create their own Japanese-inspired design through fox mask painting, and discover the
traditional art of origami.
Beginner-friendly Japanese language sessions will introduce visitors to useful everyday words, phrases and pronunciation while exploring some of the cultural context behind the language. These activities are designed to give visitors of all ages an accessible and engaging introduction to different elements of Japanese culture.

TRADITIONAL THEATRE & MARTIAL ARTS
Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the history and artistry of Japanese Noh theatre through a performance by Sara Noh Theatre. Led by London-based Noh performer Sakurako Tanaka, Sara Noh Theatre explores ways of making traditional Japanese performing arts accessible and meaningful to contemporary audiences. Sakurako has performed and delivered workshops at the British Museum and other cultural and educational institutions across the UK. Kettering Kendo Club will also present an exciting live demonstration of kendo, showcasing the power, precision and discipline of this traditional Japanese martial art. The demonstration will explore how skilled sword techniques, focused movement and respect come together within the practice of kendo. Visitors will also have the opportunity to try kendo for themselves and experience an introduction to this historic martial art.

PAID WORKSHOPS
Two separately ticketed workshops will also be available during Japan Fest Northampton. These workshops are not included with general admission and must be booked for an additional charge.
Artist JowyB will lead a Manga Drawing Class, giving participants the opportunity to learn the basics of drawing manga characters while developing useful creative techniques and creating their own artwork.
Adults can also explore the world of Japan’s most famous traditional drink during a Sake Tasting workshop led by drinks expert Samuel Boulton. The guided experience will help participants develop their understanding and appreciation of sake. Spaces for the Manga Drawing Class and Sake Tasting are limited, and advance booking is recommended.

Japanese Street Food
Food of Japan will bring a selection of authentic Japanese dishes and refreshments to the festival. Visitors will be able to enjoy Japanese curry, onigiri rice balls and a variety of traditional snacks, alongside premium Japanese tea. The menu will offer festivalgoers an opportunity to experience familiar and traditional flavours from Japan throughout the day.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit the Japan Fest website:
https://www.japanfest.co.uk/northampton
Tickets are also available via the official ticket partner: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whatson/leicester/mattioli-woods-welford-road-stadium/japan-fest-leicester/2026-04-26/11:00/toejmzvm
Follow the event on social media for updates, announcements, and behind-the-scenes content:
Instagram: @japanfest_uk
Facebook: Otaku World Events