The 40th Black Ships Festival was held August 11th – 13th, 2023 in Bristol and Newport, Rhode Island

Everyone had a blast at the 40th family-friendly Black Ships Festival in Bristol and Newport, RI this summer. It was a weekend with a series of joyful community events where immersive cultural attractions and art experiences were enjoyed by folks who are just like you… curious about Asian cultures!

​

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

2023's Black Ships Festival was bigger and better than ever, with a full day of activities and entertainment for the whole family. Visitors immersed themselves in Asian culture with traditional drumming, origami folding, and a chance to meet your favorite superheroes and princesses including the first 17 and Under Cosplay costume contest!

​

Events included:

• Traditional Drumming: Performances of outstanding Taiko Drumming.

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

• Martial Arts Demonstrations: Participants learned 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. 

• 17 and Under Cosplay Costume Contest:  Cosplay is a popular hobby in Japan

• ​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 were food trucks, games, and activities that everyone  enjoyed.

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!

​

The festival shortens the distance between the Islands of Japan and the Ocean State!

​

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. Handicap accessible.

​

As the festival, events, and educational outreach programs grow in popularity JASRI will continue transitioning from being confined to the Southern Rhode Island areas of Newport and Bristol to spreading out to neighboring communities throughout the state and Southern New England.

​