Plano, TX — October 8, 2025 — The Japan-America Society of Dallas/Fort Worth (JASDFW), in partnership with the City of Plano, celebrated another record-breaking year for the 26th Annual Otsukimi Japanese Moon Viewing Festival on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Haggard Park. Drawing an estimated 5,000 to 6,000 attendees, this year’s festival may have been the largest in its history—welcoming families, friends, and culture enthusiasts from across North Texas for an evening filled with music, performances, cuisine, and community spirit beneath a radiant autumn moon.
A night of culture, connection, and celebration
Festival-goers enjoyed an immersive lineup of traditional and modern Japanese experiences, including taiko drum performances, a live sumo demonstration by the Dallas Sumo Club, and Japanese folk and contemporary dance. Attendees also sampled authentic Japanese food and sweets from more than a dozen vendors, including WaSho United, Weebie Takoyaki, Pink Oasis, Mint’s Kitchen, Mitsuwa Marketplace, Ebesu, CHINCHIKURIN, Bobaddiction, Love Song Kitchen, and Starbucks.
Children delighted in the JASDFW activity booth, where they crafted rabbit ears and learned about the Moon Rabbit legend, a beloved story in Japanese folklore. Games, art, and family-friendly cultural activities filled the park, creating a joyful and inclusive atmosphere.
Community leaders and sponsors make it possible
The evening’s success was made possible through the dedication of the JASDFW staff, committee members, volunteers, performers, vendors, and sponsors, with special thanks to Deputy Mayor Maria Tu and Doug McDonald from the City of Plano for their attendance, support, and partnership in hosting the event at Haggard Park—an ideal setting for this beloved community tradition.
“This year’s Otsukimi was truly a night to remember,” said Grant Ogata, President of JASDFW. “Thousands of smiling faces came together to celebrate Japanese culture under the full moon. We are deeply grateful for everyone who helped make it possible—from our volunteers to our sponsors—and we’re already looking forward to next year.”
We are excited to announce that Scott Arakawa was the winner of our $500 drawing giveaway for gift cards provided by our sponsors.
Looking ahead
As one of North Texas’s most cherished cultural festivals, Otsukimi continues to build bridges between Japan and the local community, honoring centuries-old traditions while creating new memories for future generations.
JASDFW extends heartfelt gratitude to all who attended, supported, and celebrated this unforgettable evening—and invites everyone to join again in 2026 for another magical moonlit celebration.
For more information about upcoming events and programs, visit jasdfw.org.
