Calgary Japanese Festival, known as Omatsuri, is a celebration of Japanese culture organized by the Calgary Japanese Community Association. It runs for two days each July at the Max Bell Centre.
About
WhenTwo days in mid-July each year; the 2026 edition ran July 17 to 18.
WhereMax Bell Centre, 1001 Barlow Trail SE
First held2011
AdmissionAbout $17.50 for adults, $10 for seniors 65 and over; children 12 and under free.
Expect Japanese food vendors, taiko drumming and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, and hands on cultural activities for kids and adults. In 2026 the festival ran Friday evening from 5 to 9 and Saturday from 10 to 5, and it packs the Max Bell Centre for the weekend.
The Calgary Japanese Community Association started Omatsuri in August 2011. It has since settled into a mid-July slot, with the 2026 edition held July 17 and 18.