UA’s Sakura Festival Returns to Celebrate Japanese Culture

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. – The University of Alabama Capstone International Center invites the public to learn about and celebrate Japanese culture during the 28th annual Sakura Festival, with events through the end of April.

The Sakura Festival is held to honor the time of ohanami, or the viewing of the cherry blossoms, to remind celebrants of the enduring nature of life.

In contemporary Japan, friends gather when the cherry trees, or sakura, blossom to celebrate and recognize friendship. Similarly, the festival reminds many in Alabama of fresh beginnings and the renewal of the spirit that comes with friendship.

From Wednesday, April 23, to Sunday, April 27, an exhibit of Japanese-themed art created by schoolchildren of all ages from Tuscaloosa and Narashino, Japan for the annual Sakura Festival art contest will be on display at University Mall. The event, which is sponsored by the Tuscaloosa Sister Cities Commission, is free and open to the public.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 26, the annual Matsuri in the Mall event will be  at University Mall. This year’s theme is Yakudo, which means vibrant. Featured performances will include Japanese dances, martial arts and music. Participants can visit a number of booths where they can learn about Japanese games, fitness and origami. A scavenger hunt will feature prizes ranging from Japanese candy to gift cards for food and travel. Among the groups participating in the event are the Japan-America Society of Alabama, JVC, Tuscaloosa Sister Cities Commission, the Consulate General of Japan and the UA Japan Club.

For more information, email the Capstone International Center at cic@ua.edu.