Each year, the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre offers a spectacular array of events that offer a glimpse into Japanese life, culture and art that are not often seen outside of Japan. In many cases, it may be the first or only opportunity to experience the exhibit or performance in Canada.
January
Oshogatsukai - New Year's Festival
Come to the JCCC New Year’s Festival and experience a vast array of Japanese new year traditions while enjoying performances and food.
February
Setsuban
Join us for Setsubun, a traditional Japanese seasonal ritual that marks the threshold between winter and spring—a time to release misfortune and welcome renewal. Rooted in a traditional Japanese ritual, the evening invites guests to take part in mamemaki (bean throwing) to symbolically drive out the oni, figures of illness, fear, and disruption, and to share in the quiet ritual of ehomaki, eaten in silence while facing the year’s auspicious direction.
March
Hina Matsuri - Spring Festival
Formerly known as Haru Matsuri, the new name is a familiar one that many families already hold close. Rooted in the traditional Doll Festival, the day brings together displays of hina dolls, crafts, performances, food, and hands-on activities throughout the Centre. It is a welcoming, all-ages celebration that marks the approach of spring and invites people to spend time together moving through spaces of art, play, and shared attention. Guests will be greeted by an elegant display of Hina Matsuri dolls at our entrance.
April & May
Sakura Fest - Bazaar, Sakura Gala & more!
New for 2026! - Join us for Sakura Fest, a two week long celebration that encompasses traditional JCCC events such as the Sakura Gala & Bazaar with new exciting events. More to be announced soon!
Sakura Gala
The Sakura Gala is the JCCC’s annual showcase gala which recognizes and celebrates the work of the Sakura Award recipient. Recipients of the Sakura Award are recognized for their exceptional contributions to the promotion and exchange of Japanese culture, and enhancing awareness of Nikkei heritage within Canada and abroad.
Bazaar
The Bazaar is the JCCC’s annual fundraiser with a vast array of new and gently used items for sale. The dining hall also features scrumptious food for eating in, or to take home.
June
Toronto Japanese Film Festival
The Toronto Japanese Film Festival (TJFF) showcases the finest Japanese films that have been recognized for excellence by Japanese audiences and critics, international film festival audiences and the Japanese Film Academy.
July
Natsu Matsuri - Summer Festival
Natsu Matsuri is our summer festival with a full afternoon of activities with the spectacle dance performance by over 100 dancers. The festival is a particularly special one because of the co-operative effort of the many community organizations involved.
August
Natsu Matsuri - Summer Festival
The JCCC Board of Directors invites all JCCC volunteers (old and new) to join us at Arigato Day. This will be a special time to thank all our volunteers. Join us for casual evening of mingling, bingo, JCCC Trivia Contest, and dinner. We will also celebrate Nisei Veteran's Award & OVSA recipients.
September
Tsukimi
New in 2026, further details to come!
Family Golf Tournament
Enjoy a fun day of golf with family and friends – all skill levels are welcome with lots of prizes to be won! After a great day of golfing, there will be presentations and dinner back at the JCCC.
October
Nuit Blanche
We are excited to be participating in Nuit Blanche again for 2026! The JCCC will be open from 7pm to 7am alongside the rest of the City of Toronto and will activate for a night of celebrations.
Issei Day
A Tribute to the Seniors in our Community. The JCCC invites all who are 70 years of age and older to an afternoon of entertainment and lunch. More than 300 attendees often travel from across the GTA for a chance to gather with their friends and family at this annual event. This event is sponsored in part by the Momiji Health Care Society and the Consulate General of Japan.
November
Hon to Shugei to Amaimono
New for 2026! Keep an eye out later in the year for details on this new Matsuri.
December
Omisoka
Join us at the JCCC to welcome the New Year with Ōmisoka (大晦日) — Japan’s cherished New Year’s Eve celebration! Offering a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty, warmth, and meaning of Japan’s year-end traditions.