The theme of 2026’s Sakura Festival is “Mirai e no yakusoku/未来への約束” or “promise.”

The spring celebration of Sakura, or cherry blossoms, reminds us of the value of each moment, while the return of spring awakens us to fresh possibilities in life. This year’s theme is a promise to carry on the 40 year connection that was built between the community of Tuscaloosa and Japan for many more precious decades to come.

A connection that began in the 1980’s when Alabama set out inviting Japanese companies to the area which led to a sister city agreement between Narashino City in the Chiba Prefecture and Tuscaloosa, AL in 1986. Around the same time, Japan Victor Company, Ltd. (JVC) opened manufacturing plants in Tuscaloosa and local interest in Japanese culture began to blossom. The Sakura Festival was initiated by Dr. Marilyn Emplaincourt of the University of Alabama’s Japan Program. Over the years, the festival has evolved as it has been carefully passed down with continued support of Tuscaloosa Sister Cities International and dedicated UA faculty, staff and student volunteers. The Capstone International Center promises to continue the Sakura Festival tradition for years to come as reflected in this year’s theme.

Table activities are subject to change!

• Tuscaloosa Cherry Tree Map and UA Arboretum – Learn about ornamental cherry trees and what’s native to Tuscaloosa.
• Japan-American Society of Alabama Information and “Nipponica” Display
• Tuscaloosa Sister Cities International Information and Uchiwa Designed in Narashino City
• Narashino City Information – Learn about our sister city!
• Japanese Language and Culture Society of UA – Learn about weekly activities and how you can join in.
• SoS Brigade and KamiCon – Sign up for the cosplay contest and learn about Birmingham’s annual KamiCon.
• Omikuji and Ema – See what kind of luck you have and write a wish like you’re at a shrine in Japan.
• Traditional Japanese Festival Activities: yoyo tsuri and senbonbiki
• Tea Ceremony – Sign up to participate in a small demonstration. Link coming soon!
• Manga Collection – Check out some Japanese manga and discover something new.
• Japanese Recipes – Discovery something new to cook and practice your sushi skills with a fun toy.
• Yukata and Seifuku (school uniform) – To try on over your clothes and take a photo.
• Write Your Name in Japanese – Kobayashi-sensei can write your name or teach you to write it yourself.

The cosplay contest is back again! Show up dressed as your favorite character or idol and enter to win a prize from Japan. Entrants must register at the Kami-Con/Bama SOS Brigade table upon arrival and no later than 1:00 pm. The only rule is to please keep it “PG” as this is a family event!

Grab a bite at a local food truck if you get hungry!

Stage activities are subject to change!