August 16th – 18th, 2024 in Bristol and Newport, Rhode Island
Don’t miss this weekend for a series of joyful community events where immersive cultural attractions and art experiences await. Join folks who are just like you… curious about Asian cultures!

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Ready to have fun celebrating at our inspiring, informative, insanely cool Black Ships Festival in RI this August? The festival has the unexpected side effect of shortening the distance between the Islands of Japan and the Ocean State!

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Family-friendly events that bring communities together are more important than ever. From the local masters of traditional arts and crafts to the edgiest new innovators, JASRI’s Black Ships Festival has created a powerful platform for engaging with Japan’s creative expressions. The artwork and events are for people to connect, share stories, and collaborate with other makers and businesses inspiring others to share their passions with the local community.

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Celebrate Asian Culture at the Black Ships Festival - Cultural Marketplace Fair!

The Black Ships Festival's Cultural Marketplace Fair will have a full day of activities and entertainment for the whole family. Immerse yourself in Asian culture with traditional drumming, origami folding, and a chance to meet your favorite superheroes and princesses. And don't forget to enter the first Kid's 12 and Under Cosplay costume contest!

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Here's what you can expect:

• Traditional Drumming: Get your groove on with performances of outstanding Taiko Drumming.

• Origami Folding: Learn how to fold your own origami paper cranes, flowers, and more.

• Martial Arts Demonstrations: learn about the ways of the mind, body and spirit through many unique forms of multi-disciplinary martial arts from area schools, clubs and dojos.

• Tea Ceremony: The traditional ceremony, or sadō (茶道), is a centuries-old ritual that is meant to be a peaceful and meditative experience.

• Demonstrations of "Ikebana" and "Kokedama" by the Bristol Garden Club: the Japanese art of flower arranging and Kokedama involves growing plants in balls of moss. 

• Kids 12 and Under Cosplay Costume Contest:  Cosplay is a popular hobby in Japan, enter the first kid's cosplay costume contest and bring your dog in costume too for a chance to win prizes. Here are some tips for entering the contest:

• Choose a character that you really love.

• Put a lot of effort into your costume.

• Practice your poses and your character's personality. And have fun!

• ​Join in the Kendama Competition: 

Kendama is a traditional Japanese skill toy consisting of a handle and a ball connected together by a string. The goal is to perform these tricks as skillfully and as creatively as possible.​ ​

• And much more! There will be food trucks, games, and activities for everyone to enjoy.

The Black Ships Festival events are a great opportunity to learn about Asian culture and have some fun with your family. So come on down and join us!

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