If you love Japanese culture and want to do something special this weekend, the Cherry Blossom Festival in Friburgo is the perfect event to add to your calendar. On July 11 and 12, the city will host the traditional Hanami 2026, a celebration filled with Asian cuisine, workshops, cultural performances, and, of course, the chance to admire the sakura blossoms.
The festival takes place at the headquarters of the Japanese-Brazilian Cultural and Sports Association of Nova Friburgo (ACENBNF), which is responsible for organizing the event. We’ll give you more details below!
Cherry Blossom Festival in Friburgo Offers Free Admission
Friburgo is one of the cities near Rio that’s definitely worth visiting. And Hanami 2026 is one of the season’s main events, featuring various themed activities over two days.
The Cherry Blossom Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the headquarters of the Japanese-Brazilian Cultural and Sports Association of Nova Friburgo. To find it easily, the organizers recommend searching for “ACENBNF Kaikan” on Google Maps.
Admission is free, but those arriving by car and using the association’s parking lot will pay R$ 10 and receive a coupon to participate in raffles during the event.
Important note: Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Those interested in participating in the cosplay contest can pre-register through the official profile.
Check out the Hanami 2026 schedule
Over the two days, the public can enjoy shiatsu sessions, an origami workshop, Japanese cuisine, and various artistic and sports activities. Check out the full schedule!
Saturday (July 11):
- 10 a.m.: Event opening;
- 10:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: Cherry blossom viewing;
- 12 p.m.: Sumo demonstration;
- 1:30 p.m.: Taiko (Japanese drums);
- 3:30 p.m.: Cosplay contest;
- 5:00 p.m.: Announcement of the contest results;
- Concerts featuring the band Danketsu and singer Fujita San.
Sunday (July 12):
- 10 a.m.: Children’s Judo Tournament;
- 2:00 p.m.: Folk dance;
- 2:30 p.m.: Performance by Fujita San;
- 3:00 p.m.: Self-defense demonstration with Bia Watanabe;
- 4:00 p.m.: Folk dance with Fujita San.
What is Hanami?
Hanami is a Japanese tradition that celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms, known as sakura. The practice symbolizes the appreciation of nature’s beauty and the value of living in the present moment.
In Nova Friburgo, the blossoms usually make their appearance between late June and mid-July, creating a natural spectacle that lasts from one week to ten days.
So, make the most of the season to experience this unique cultural immersion at the Cherry Blossom Festival in Friburgo, enjoyingthe attractions and natural beauty that draw visitors from various regions.
📍 Where: Avenida Antônio Mário de Azevedo, 6,785 (Friburgo-Teresópolis Highway)
📆 When: July 11 and 12, 2026
🕰️ Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
🎟️ Free admission
🌸 For more information, visit the official Instagram page
