Japan Fest 2026

£21 / Under 18 £16 + Booking Fees Apply

Date: 11 Jul 2026 11am - 6pm

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Contact details

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Derby QUAD & Cinema
Market Place
Cathedral Quarter
Derby
DE1 3AS

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01332 290606 Visit website

Description

Japan Fest Derby Brings a Celebration of Japanese Culture to the City This July!

Japan Fest Derby returns this summer, transforming QUAD into a full day celebration of Japanese culture, entertainment, film and food from 11am onwards.

Japan Fest Derby is a family-friendly cultural festival celebrating both traditional and contemporary Japanese culture. Visitors can expect live performances, hands-on activities, cosplay, cinema screenings, authentic food, unique traders and interactive experiences all under one roof live stage performances.

The festival stage will host a vibrant line-up throughout the day, including the throwback glamour and vocals of LJ English, performances from Sara Noh Theatre, traditional Japanese music from AKI on koto, and Hibiki on the Shamisen bringing powerful live instrumentation. Pop culture fans can also enjoy Giuseppe Sessa’s One Piece-inspired “Jolly Roger” guitar performance, alongside DJ Manimal & Cerisina presenting the high-energy Hatsune Miku Glow Stick Experience with anime visuals.

Film Screenings & Entertainment

Visitors looking to relax can head into QUAD’s cinema spaces for two film screenings during the day, with titles to be confirmed. The festival blends live entertainment with cinema experiences, making it ideal for families, anime fans and film lovers alike.

Interactive Activities for All Ages

Throughout the day, attendees can take part in a wide range of cultural activities including Go, Shogi, origami, kimono dress-up, fox mask painting and an Akihabara Maid Café experience with Meian Maids.

A colourful cosplay parade will also take place, celebrating anime, manga and gaming culture.

Food, Shopping & Traders

Japan Fest Derby will feature stall holders offering Japanese food, quirky crafts, handmade goods and unique finds. Visitors can enjoy Japanese treats while exploring a marketplace inspired by both modern Tokyo and traditional Kyoto.

For more information and ticket purchases, visit the Japan Fest website: https://www.japanfest.co.uk/derby

Tickets are available via QUAD derby: https://www.derbyquad.co.uk/events/japanfest/

Follow the event on social media for updates, announcements, and behind-the-scenes content: Instagram: @japanfest_uk Facebook: Japan Fest UK

Part of the 50:50 campaign

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