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09 Dec 2025
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09 Dec 2025
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As well as Kodo, there will be an array of exciting Japanese dance and folk tales, arts and crafts, games and food. (Pic: Gav Connolly)
The Foyle Obon Japanese Festival returns in spectacular style on Saturday, May 24 2025, with a landmark headline performance by two members of Kodo, Japan’s most internationally acclaimed taiko drumming ensemble. Held at The Playtrail, this year’s festival promises to be the most exciting and memorable to date.
Kodo members Mitsuru Ishizuka and Taiyo Onoda will bring their extraordinary skill, energy, and artistry to the outdoor stage at The Playtrail, offering a rare and powerful experience of world-class taiko. Known for their dynamic stage presence and dedication to the centuries-old tradition of Japanese drumming, Kodo has toured across six continents, inspiring audiences worldwide with their precision and passion.
Their appearance at Foyle Obon 2025 marks a momentous occasion not just for the festival and the city—a rare opportunity to witness artists of this calibre live in Northern Ireland.
Festival director, Fiona Umetsu, says “We are thrilled to welcome the amazing Kodo, their skill, energy and heart will bring something truly unique to our festival. We are incredibly grateful they have made this journey to be with us!”
The Foyle Obon Japanese Festival is a joyful celebration of Japanese music, dance, arts, and community spirit. Open to all, the festival transforms the beautiful grounds of the Playtrail into a ‘Little Tokyo’ featuring live performances of community and performance taiko, traditional Japanese dance, arts, craft and sushi workshops, games, Japanese folk tales and traditional ‘Kakigori’ ices! An afternoon of family friendly activities inspired by the Japanese summer festival tradition on Obon Festivals.
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The festival runs from 2.00pm – 6.00pm. Entrance is £10 per person (under 3s free). Tickets are only available online here https://tinyurl.com/jhn66hc7
Organisers are grateful to all their funders who have made the festival and the visit from Kodo possible, the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, Derry City and Strabane District Council, Halifax Foundation for Northern Ireland, The Garfield Weston Foundation, Radius Housing, the Esme Mitchell Trust and the Community Foundation for Northern Ireland.
Whether you're a fan of Japanese culture, world music, or just looking for a vibrant day out, Foyle Obon 2025 offers an unforgettable experience of rhythm, connection, and celebration.
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