JASM is looking for volunteers for the year’s annual Shinnenkai on Sunday, January 26, 2020. These volunteers help with a variety of tasks. Please stay tuned for more details!

The event is a perfect place for cultural exchange, meeting other Japanese related organizations like JASM, and to experience new things in a fun environment with performances, and delicious Japanese food. We hope to create a fun family atmosphere that allows people of all ages to come together and experience a Japanese New Year!

Job Description of available volunteer positions:

Registration Table - Responsible for checking in guests who have prepaid and also selling Shinnenkai Tickets at the door.

Silent Auction - Help display and handle Silent Auction items.

JASM Market – Assist JASM office in selling items at the JASM Market.

Food - Help in the kitchen to distribute the food or help at Mochi Pounding.

Set Up - Help JASM set up for the Shinnenkai event.

Take Down - Assist JASM take down and pack when the event is over.

Witness first hand a Japanese style New Year celebration! Japan America Society of Minnesota is proud to be bringing the sights, sounds, and tastes of a Japanese style New Year celebration in January 2020.  Shinnenkai is an annual event which endeavors to bring Japanese style New Year traditions to Minnesota. The event is a perfect place for cultural exchange, meeting other Japanese related organizations like JASM, and to experience new things in a fun environment with performances, delicious Japanese food, and all sorts of fun for children too. We hope to create a fun family atmosphere that allows people of all ages to come together and experience a Japanese New Year!

*Ticket prices will go up $2 if you pay at the door*

**Free Admission with New Membership at the door**

On Saturday, February 15th, 2020, high school students from all over Minnesota will gather together to put their knowledge of Japanese Language and Culture to the test!

Teams of students from each school will compete in 4 levels of difficulty. Students will first write an essay, then participate in a preliminary round of questions regarding Japanese Language and Culture. The winners of the Final Rounds are sent to Washington D.C. to compete in the national Japan Bowl and attend the Sakura Festival.

This year again, we are inviting the family of the students, and anyone interested to come and watch the Final Rounds of J-Quiz!

The schedule will be announced later. 

The Final Rounds and Cultural programs are open to the public to enjoy! 

The Obon Festival, the largest Japan-related festival in Minnesota, takes place in Como Park every August.  Modeled after summer festivals held across Japan, it features stage performances, cultural demonstrations, activities, and, of course, Japanese food. 

Save the date and enjoy the summer festival with us!

For the general information about the Obon Festival, please click here.