Published on March 29, 2026
As the clock strikes midnight and the new year begins, communities across the United States are gearing up to celebrate Japanese Oshogatsu, a festive occasion that welcomes the new year with traditional customs, family gatherings, and cultural performances. Oshogatsu, or Japanese New Year, is not only a time to reflect on the past year but also to look forward to new beginnings and blessings.
In Florida, the city of Orlando will host its annual Oshogatsu Festival at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, where attendees can immerse themselves in Japanese culture. The event will include live performances of taiko drumming, traditional dance, and various workshops where visitors can learn to make symbolic New Year foods like mochi. Additionally, delicious Japanese cuisine will be available from local vendors, allowing everyone to savor traditional dishes.
Moving to Texas, the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Houston is poised to welcome thousands of guests at its Oshogatsu celebration. This year, the festivities will feature calligraphy demonstrations, games like kites and card games, and a chance to partake in the making of osechi-ryori, a traditional Japanese New Year’s meal. Families are encouraged to spend time together and engage in activities that celebrate the spirit of the holiday.
California will not be outdone, with events occurring in major cities such as Los Angeles and San Francisco. The Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles will present a weekend-long festival with art exhibits, cooking classes, and storytelling sessions focusing on the history and significance of Oshogatsu. Meanwhile, San Francisco’s Japantown will come alive with a vibrant parade showcasing traditional music and dance, marking the arrival of the new year in style.
In Hawaii, where Japanese culture is deeply intertwined with local traditions, Oshogatsu is a major celebration. The Honolulu Museum of Art’s Spalding House will feature an outdoor festival that blends Japanese performances with Hawaiian flair. Local artisans will display crafts, and food stalls will serve an array of favorites, including chirashi sushi and sweet mochi. The festival will also include a special children’s area with activities focused on Oshogatsu traditions.
Oregon is also taking part in the celebrations, with the Portland Japanese Garden hosting a family-friendly event filled with cultural experiences. Educators will lead workshops that teach participants about New Year customs, and there will be opportunities to enjoy tea ceremonies and ikebana flower arranging. The garden’s serene setting provides a tranquil backdrop for visitors looking to reflect on the new year in a peaceful environment.
Lastly, in New York, the Japan Society is throwing a grand Oshogatsu celebration in Manhattan. Guests can participate in a variety of traditional games, sample festive food, and enjoy performances from local Japanese artists. The highlight of the event will be the New Year’s mochi pounding, where visitors can witness and partake in the making of this beloved delicacy, traditionally eaten during the holiday season.
As families prepare to ring in 2019, the celebration of Oshogatsu offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Japanese culture right in the heart of American cities. From Florida to New York, the spirit of new beginnings is alive, reminding us of the importance of tradition, community, and celebration.
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