Ginza Holiday Festival 2024 in Chicago

The Ginza Holiday Festival is a summer event taking place every August in Chicago. It was started by the members of the Midwest Buddhist Temple in Chicago’s Old Town over 60 years ago. Festival attendees can enjoy delicious food including famous Chicken Teriyaki and immerse themselves in Japanese culture such as Japanese Folk dances, Taiko drumming, and the Waza. Japanese artisans from Tokyo have mastered traditional crafts from the Edo period.

2024 Program

In 2024, Ginza Holiday Festival features performances by Minyo dancers, a traditional Japanese form of art that emphasizes the folk song aspects of Japanese culture. Energetic Taiko drummers will also perform on the main stage, As usual, the public can see martial arts demonstrations. Aikido and Judo schools will demonstrate their skills, as well as Kendo (Japanese fencing). The program also includes tours of MBT’s Chapel and brief talks about Shin Buddhism. In addition, the festival features many local Asian-themed craft vendors.

Waza Artisans from Japan

A few Waza masters will demonstrate their skills in creating unique crafts. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet the Waza artisans and purchase their crafts. Other exhibits will be filled with kimonos, t-shirts, artwork, and jewelry.

Food

Of course, there will be plenty of Japanese food to go along, such as the famous charcoal-grilled Chicken Teriyaki, Udon noodles, fresh corn on the cob, sushi, spam musubi, edamame, and other delicacies. For dessert, don't forget to try the kintoki or opt for Japanese beer. Beer, sake, and Japanese Plum Wine are available to those of legal drinking age.

Hours and Tickets

Ginza Holiday Festival runs from 5 pm to 8 pm on Friday, from 11 am to 7 pm on Saturday, and from 11 am to 4 pm on Sunday. To enter a $5 donation is requested of each guest. Children under 12 don't have to make a donation. Pets are not allowed on the grounds of Ginza or in the temple building.