Colorful ceremonies to commemorate Rhode Island’s native son, Commodore Matthew C. Perry, and the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa, which opened trade between Japan and the United States. Wreath-laying and speeches by American and Japanese dignitaries. Colors will be presented by the Bristol Police Color Guard. Free and open to the public.

Sail aboard one of the magnificent Tall Ships, the 101′ Schooner Aurora. View Newport harbor as you sip sake from Gekkeikan, and sample some great sushi. Space is limited to 68 people. A sellout every year! Sponsored by IDC, The Newport Experience. $45 per person. Purchase Tickets Online 

* Please arrive 15 mins prior to the sail to get checked in. Be sure to allow for traffic, boat leaves promptly. Parking for the Schooner Aurora is  Provided anywhere in the "S" Dock Parking Lot or anywhere along "A" Dock.

Odaiko New England, will dazzle you with their electrifying drums. The taiko is said to be the voice and spirit of the Japanese. The sound of the taiko has an irresistible draw the summons people to seek out its source!

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Bring chairs & blankets 

Independence Park on Thames Street is transformed into a Japanese-American Cultural Center, featuring demonstrations, workshops, and displays. Including Arts and Crafts, Taiko, and Martial Arts Demonstrations.

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Full Schedule

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Celebrate the 40th Anniversary of the Black Ships Festival. Enjoy a formal gala honoring the signing of the Treaty of Kanagawa and the accomplishments of the United States Navy. Join us as we welcome Japanese Dignitaries, RI Officials and the US Navy. Enjoy a unique evening that fuses both Japanese and American culture. The Gala includes dancing, an Open Bar, wines by Oyster Bay Wines, and cultural cuisine with a Japanese flare. Begin the evening with the breaking of the Ceremonial Sake Drum filled with Gekkeikan Sake. Enjoy a exclusive taiko drumming presentation by Odaiko New England Taiko Drummers. Outstanding sit down dinner prepared  by McGrath's Catering. Gala is Presented by Toray Plastics (America).  Purchase Tickets 

Wreath ceremony at Perry's tomb by American and Japanese dignitaries. Navy color guard, Northeast Band Bugler. The public is invited to experience this commemorative service. 

Sail aboard one of the magnificent Tall Ships, the 101′ Schooner Aurora. View Newport harbor as you sip sake from Gekkeikan, and sample some great sushi. Space is limited to 68 people. A sellout every year! Sponsored by IDC, The Newport Experience. Tickets are $45, you can purchase them Online 

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* Please arrive 15 mins prior to the sail to get checked in. Be sure to allow for traffic, boat leaves promptly. Parking for the Schooner Aurora is  Provided anywhere in the "S" Dock Parking Lot or anywhere along "A" Dock. - Purchase Tickets Here

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