Japan Fest comes to Northampton for the first time on 17 October, setting up a family culture day inside the Northampton Saints Foundation at cinch Stadium, Franklin’s Gardens.
First-wave programme
The announced first wave of performers includes MION, Sara Noh Theatre, Kettering Kendo Club, Leicester Taiko, LeLe, Sumie Kent and JowyB’s Manga Class. Activities include fox-mask painting, origami, kimono try-ons, a basic Japanese language taster and sake tasting with Samuel Boulton, with more announcements to come.
Stall holders already confirmed include Okashi 2 Sweets, Anisence, Otaku World Store, Ukiyo Matcha Teahouse, Caramel Cat Cafe, Food of Japan, OH MY DOH!, the Japanese Tea Store, Euphoria Kpop Store and others.
Paid workshops
The one-hour sake workshop is for adults aged 18 and over, includes four samples, and is limited to 10 tickets per session. JowyB’s manga workshop teaches character-drawing techniques for all abilities and is limited to 16 tickets per session. Both workshops have separate booking links on the official Japan Fest page; check live availability before attending.
Tickets and practicalities
Advance tickets run from free up to £16.26 including booking fee, with group tickets at £45.53. Under-8s enter free. The event runs 11:00–18:00; Eventbrite notes under-14s should attend with a parent or legal guardian. Refunds are available up to seven days before. Replica guns and weapons are not allowed in cosplay.
Free event parking is at Northampton Saints Car Park B via Ross Road, NN5 5AX. The organiser warns visitors to use that postcode rather than the stadium postcode because it may lead to the wrong entrance.
Other travel and access
Northampton Station is about a 10-minute walk from Franklin’s Gardens, and the number 9 bus serves the area. Event-specific step-free, accessible-toilet, quiet-space, seating and companion-ticket arrangements are not published, so confirm with the organiser before travelling if you need them.
Cover image
Original AI-generated thematic illustration. It does not depict the event.