30th Japanese New Year Celebration to be held Jan. 20, 2024

The Japan-America Society of Northwest Florida (JAS) will usher in the “Year of the Dragon” with its 30th annual Japanese New Year Celebration on Sat., Jan. 20, 2024, at the Wright Place in Pensacola.

Festivities will take place from 12 noon until 4 p.m. and will include performances by the popular Matsuriza taiko drummers, Japanese dancing and children’s performances, martial arts and sumo demonstrations, music, food vendors, and other cultural displays, plus a silent auction.

JAS members and children under age 3 enjoy free admission, and non-member tickets are $10 each. Guests can skip the ticket line by becoming a member in advance at jasnwfl.org/join.

The Wright Place is located at 80 E. Wright St. and is part of the First United Methodist Church complex. In addition to street parking, there are several lots adjacent to the church that are available for this event. Doors open at 11:00 a.m.

The mission of the Japan-America Society of Northwest Florida is to foster and promote stronger ties of friendship and understanding between the U.S. and Japan. For more information, visit jasnwfl.org or facebook.com/jasnwfl.