Matsuri is a Japanese festival held every year to celebrate Japanese culture and cross cultural friendship between the Japanese and Australian people. This event is for everyone who loves Japan as much as we do - and we hope to continue introducing Japan and spreading interest in Japan.

This event was founded back in 2006, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Japan and Australia’s friendship. Since then, Sydney’s Japanese community have been working hard to host a traditional style Matsuri, making this event a Summer staple for Sydneysiders.

You will find many Japanese festival attractions at Matsuri, including Japanese food stalls, beer garden, and gorgeous Japanese items. At our exhibition booths you will find traditional arts and crafts workshops with activities like Origami and calligraphy. Over on the stage you’ll find yourself entertained by traditional festival dancers, as well as karate demonstration, taiko performance and much more. We also offer exciting segments on stage such as the Cosplay stage show that involve our audience members.

The 2020 Matsuri event was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic, but will finally be re-open at last this year, 2025. The event will be held at an indoor venue in Ultimo’s Wentworth Park Sport Complex, not far from Darling Harbour.