Get ready for a joyful day of culture, creativity and community at this year’s Kodomo no Matsuri (Children’s Day Festival) presented by the Japanese Community Association of Hawaii.

The festival is from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at Sangha Hall in Hilo. It’s a fun-filled and free event for the young and the young-at-heart.

Held every other year, Kodomo no Matsuri is rooted in the Japanese tradition of honoring children’s happiness, growth and well-being. This year will be no different, with hands-on activities, games and cultural experiences.

Keiki can enjoy craft stations, discover new traditions and enjoy tasty treats, while families take in a variety of live entertainment and demonstrations throughout the day – including a tea ceremony workshop, gyotaku demonstration, origami, somen-nagashi, bonsai and calligraphy.

Performance by MikAnS from Oahu features Anju Madoka on shamisen and vocals, Sho’on Shibata on taiko and shinobue, and Michael Gonhata on taiko. Their repertoire includes a rich mix of minyo songs and innovative contemporary adaptations, creating a vibrant musical experience that honors tradition while embracing the present. Also performing is Hui Okinawa Kobudo Taiko.

These special presentations bring the spirit and beauty of Japanese culture to life in a way that’s both educational and exciting.

“(JCAH) encourages you to bring your keiki, invite your friends, and come celebrate and learn,” Kodomo no Matsuri Chair Jenn Kurohara said in a press release. “Also, thanks to our dedicated committee, hardworking volunteers and generous sponsors for making this event possible. We truly appreciate your support.”

In addition, at 5:30 pm., JCAH presents a special evening concert featuring Mark Yamanaka and family. Joining him will be his son Jorden, who is also a singer/songwriter and member of Crossing Rain, which regrouped and is now known as Party Foul. Ryane Kaleo‘onalani of Hilo will join her dad.

Mark Yamanaka is an award-winning Hilo artist, songwriter and a 14 -time Na Hoku Hanohano Award winner. His music blends traditional Hawaiian sounds with contemporary style, “creating a truly moving experience you won’t want to miss, especially with his multi-talented children joining him. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering his music for the first time, this concert promises to be uplifting, soulful and memorable,” according to the press release.

Opening performance will be by Puna Taiko.

Tickets are just $20 per person and can be purchased at Kodomo no Matsuri or online at jcahawaii.org.

For questions regarding the concert, call JCAH at (808) 969-6437 or Jan (808) 345-3500.