Experience Matsuri Japan Festival 2025 in Sydney: A Celebration of Culture, Flavour & Community

Mark your calendar for Sunday 7 December 2025 because Sydney is about to come alive with colour, laughter and music. The Matsuri Japan Festival returns at Wentworth Park Sporting Complex in Ultimo (42 Wattle Street), running from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM, bringing together Japanese culture, food, performances and community spirit. 

Entering the festival feels like stepping into Japan for a day. Lanterns overhead, vibrant yukata and kimono, the echo of taiko drums. There will be a wide variety of food stalls offering classic Japanese festival fare: takoyaki, yakitori, okonomiyaki, sweets, perhaps even matcha-flavoured treats. It’s a feast for the senses — sights, smells, sounds all combining into something joyful. 

If you love music and performance, you’ll have plenty to see. The stage programme will include traditional dance, taiko drumming, karate demonstrations, and a cosplay show. Workshops are planned for calligraphy, origami, and perhaps tea ceremony or ikebana. Whether you want to watch, learn, or simply soak up the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.

Ticketing is simple and friendly. Adults (aged 17+) cost $15 at the door, or $10 if purchased in advance online. Children aged 5-16 and seniors can enter for $5, while kids under 5 are free. One detail that adds fun: wearing Japanese attire (like a kimono or yukata) or cosplay gives free entry. 

Location and accessibility are great. Wentworth Park Sporting Complex in Ultimo is very reachable from the city centre, making it a convenient spot for a weekend outing. Whether coming with family, friends, or solo, expect a warm, welcoming crowd. 

One of the things many visitors look forward to is the market stalls and cultural vendors. Beyond food, there will be booths with crafts, traditional Japanese items, souvenirs, and cultural artisans. It’s a chance to find something beautiful and meaningful, something that carries the feel of Japan home. 

All in all, Matsuri Japan Festival 2025 promises to be a highlight of Sydney’s cultural calendar. It’s not just an event — it’s a gathering that honours friendship between communities, shares artistic tradition, and invites everyone to join in the fun. If you’re looking for a way to spend a December Sunday, this is it.