North American International Yosakoi Festival

A vibrant, high-energy celebration of Japanese culture, dance, and global community in a Lethbridge Japanese garden.

Date

October 27, 2025 –

Location

Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden

835 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge, Alberta

Event Details

We are honoured to host the first Yosakoi Festival in North America—a vibrant, high-energy celebration of Japanese culture, dance, and global community. With roots in Kochi, Japan, Yosakoi Naruko Dance blends tradition with creativity, and this festival will bring together teams from across North America and beyond for an unforgettable showcase of movement, music, and connection.

What to expect:

  •  Performances by international teams
  • Dance workshops with instructors from Japan
  • Food Truck Friday on-site
  • Cultural exchange, unity, and celebration

Sponsorship opportunities are now available! Join us in making history while promoting your brand to a diverse and engaged audience. Go to: https://kokuyosa.com/en/support/sponsor/

Canadian tour packages are also in the works—perfect for those travelling from Japan or other provinces who want to explore more beautiful Alberta, including the Rockies. https://kokuyosa.com/en/support/option1/

Let’s make Yosakoi a tradition that connects communities across borders.
Come dance, clap, and celebrate with us.

Hosted by: Kaede Cultural Society
Hosting Partner: Nikka Yuko Garden & Bunka Hashi Festival

Learn more: https://kokuyosa.com/en/

Learn More About This Event

Organizer

nikko luko japanese garden logo
  • Kaede Cultural Society

Established in 1967 to commemorate Canada’s Centennial, Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden stands as a tribute to the contributions of Japanese Canadians to Lethbridge, Alberta, and as a lasting symbol of international friendship. The name “Nikka Yuko” blends elements of both Japanese and English: Ni (from Nihon, meaning Japan), Ka (from Canada), and Yuko (meaning friendship), representing the deep connection between the two nations.

Opening Day and Hours

Opening day for 2025 is Thursday, May 8th.

The garden is open five (5) days a week:

  • Monday: 10-6pm
  • Tuesday/Wednesday CLOSED 
  • Thursday: 10-6 pm 
  • Fridays: 10-8 pm (Last Entry 7:30 pm) 
  • Saturdays: 10-8 pm (Last Entry 7:30 pm)
  • Sunday: 10-6 pm 

Daily Programming

  • Daily Garden Tours at 11, 1 & 3 pm
  • Thursday: Tea: 2 pm & 4 pm Pavilion/Ceremony (Program) 
  • Friday: Food Truck Fridays/Sumo/Anime/Wild Nights; Ceremonies 2pm & 4pm 
  • Saturday: Nodate Tea Service 2 pm & 4 pm (Experience/Program) 
  • Sunday: Nodate Tea Service 2 pm & 4 pm   (Experience/Program) 
  • Monday: Meiso (Relaxation) Mondays

Performances and Presentations: 3:00 pm 

Yukata Dressing:

Guests can wear Yukata around the Garden and community 5 days per week.

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