Children's Day Celebration May 3, 2026
Join us on Sunday, May 3rd from 11:00am–5:00pm for a day of fun for the whole family!
Along with the traditional decorations there will be activities throughout the day, including papercrafts making origami, koinobori (koi fish) origami kabuto (wearable paper samurai helmets), and paper fans. There will also be kimono dressing for boys and girls, kamishibai storytellers and a performance by the Keystone Japan Club.
All Children’s Day displays and activities are included with admission to Shofuso.
Event will be held Rain or Shine!
Keystone Japan Club
Keystone Japan Club children’s song and dance group will perform on the veranda of Shofuso at 2:00 PM
Kamishibai Storytelling
A traditional form of Japanese street theatre in the form of picture card storytelling.
Origami
Learn to fold paper into shapes like cranes, foxes and owls.
Paper Fans
Color and decorate your own paper fans.
Koinobori Papercraft
Color and make your own koinobori to take home.
Origami Kabuto Samurai Helmet
Color and make your own origami kabuto to wear.
Kimono Dressing
This is an opportunity for boys age 4-6 and girls age 3-7 to try on a traditional kimono. Included with admission to Shofuso, and will be on a first-come first served basis.
About Children's Day
Children’s Day, traditionally celebrated on May 5th in Japan, is a national holiday honoring children and expressing hope for their happy, healthy future. Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia commemorates Children’s Day each year at the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center with displays of traditional items associated with the holiday, including miniature Japanese samurai armor sets and festive fish-shaped streamers (koinobori) in the garden.
Traditional decorations will be on display May 1-17. Book your tickets today to learn more about Children's Day traditions, see the holiday displays, feed colorful koi in the pond, and enjoy the Japanese garden with its blooming azaleas.
Your donation helps to support Japanese arts, business, and cultural programs in Philadelphia including the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival, lectures and workshops, preservation of Shofuso, and much more.
