The Japanese Student Association invites students to attend the JSA Spring Festival, one of JSA's largest events in the year, Wednesday, April 19, from 5-7 p.m. in the Holcombe Hall living room. In the event, we have three booths with some Japanese culture themes observed in winter and spring: Osyogatsu (Japanese New Year Celebration), Setsubun (Japanese Old Spring celebration) and Valentine's Day.  

Osyogatsu is a Japanese word meaning New Year's Day. In Japan, we celebrate new years day more than Christmas. We can even say it is the biggest event of the year. Also, It has special food and activities only practiced in Japan. This year features Mochi (rice cake), Japanese-styled fortune draw (called Omikuji) and Kendama (a Japanese game popular around that time of the year). Mochi are flavored with kinako and anko that are a very popular way to enjoy it. The Setsubun booth will feature a soybean throw and Ehomaki (lucky foods at this time). Soybean throw is a pretty unique and fun custom. We throw soybeans to a Japanese demon called Oni to get all bad luck away from us. Of course you can experience the throw!

Finally, when it comes to Valentine's Day, Japan has a unique culture. On that day, usually, girls give chocolates to guys, so we're going to have some Japanese chocolate treats, pretty face paints and a photo booth where you can enjoy Valentine's Day vibes! We look forward to seeing you at the event! For more information, please check our Instagram @uark.jsa. 

This event is supported by the Student Activities Fee as a funded event by the Associated Student Government and is free to all currently enrolled University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, students who pay the student activities fee. This event is held in a venue that meets ADA standards. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend this event. If you require a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in this event, please contact Ryotaro Hiraki, rhiraki@uark.edu, 479-236-0391 by five business days prior to the event.