Matsuri Paris: the free Japanese festival at the Parc Floral from May 8 to 10

A major Japanese festival will take place in the heart of Paris from May 8 to 10, 2026. For three days, the Parc Floral hosts Matsuri Paris, a free celebration of Japanese culture. Street food, concerts, crafts: the program promises total immersion without leaving the capital.

Matsuri Paris: a Japanese festival in the Parc Floral

The Bois de Vincennes becomes the stage for a veritable matsuri, one of Japan’s traditional folk festivals. Craftsmen, musicians, cooks and martial arts specialists take over the alleys of the Parc Floral. This new edition offers a complete experience for less.

Japan is the stuff of dreams, but a trip to the other side of the globe is expensive for many. Fortunately, this Japanese festival allows you to get a taste of this fascinating culture in a simple subway ride. What’s more, the program is free and open to all.

The Parc Floral, located at 1, route de la Pyramide in the 12th arrondissement, is transformed for the occasion. The verdant setting adds a poetic dimension to the event. Visitors can enjoy a complete change of scenery without leaving Paris.

An extended weekend in the Land of the Rising Sun

“What if you took part in a real matsuri like in Japan, without even leaving the capital?”

This event will delight all fans of Japanese culture. A host of events and culinary specialities await visitors. The Japanese festival offers an authentic plunge into the traditions of the Land of the Rising Sun.

The weekend of May 8, 9 and 10, 2026 promises to be rich in discoveries. Crafts, gastronomy, music and flora make up the program. So there’s something to suit every visitor’s interests.

Concerts, demonstrations and craft treasures

Japanese musicians and singers perform on the garden’s main stage. The sounds blend ancestral traditions with contemporary touches. This musical program is one of the highlights of this Japanese festival.

• Sword demonstrations by martial arts specialists
• Traditional Japanese dance shows
• Authentic tea ceremony
• Artisan stalls offering original gifts
• 8 chefs and patissiers in a gourmet Japanese village

Sword and dance demonstrations punctuate the three days. The famous tea ceremony also takes place. These events offer an accessible approach to centuries-old arts.

Artisan stalls will appeal to those looking for unique objects. Ceramics, textiles or traditional stationery: there’s no shortage of choice. So everyone can leave with an authentic souvenir of this Japanese festival.

Europe’s largest bonsai collection

The Parc Floral is home to Europe’s most impressive public bonsai collection. This treasure trove of plants blends perfectly with the atmosphere of the matsuri. Lovers of Japanese gardens will appreciate this unique feature.

Between two concerts, a stroll among these miniature trees is a must. This permanent collection adds a contemplative dimension to the event. The park’s natural setting reinforces the soothing atmosphere typical of Japanese culture.

Japanese street food and gourmet village

Gourmets won’t be outdone at this Japanese festival. No fewer than 8 chefs and patissiers make up the culinary village. This Nipponese street food market promises a variety of authentic flavors.

Each stand offers different specialities to satisfy every taste. From savory dishes to sweet treats, the choice is vast. In short, this Japanese village offers a true gastronomic tour of the Land of the Rising Sun.

The friendly atmosphere invites you to take your time between bites. Visitors can enjoy their finds in the park’s flower-filled alleys. This culinary experience perfectly complements the other activities on offer.

Practical info and rates

Concerts, entertainment and activities are free on site. The only exception is the tea ceremony. However, you must pay the Parc Floral entrance fee to enter the site.

The full price is €2.80, while the half-price is €1.60. Admission is free for children under 7. These low prices make this Japanese festival accessible to all budgets.

The Parc Floral is located at 1, route de la Pyramide in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. So, technically, the Bois de Vincennes remains part of Paris. Several metro lines provide easy access to enjoy the three days of festivities.

• Japanese festival