Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden brings Yosakoi festival back to Lethbridge

The North American International Yosakoi Festival will be back in Lethbridge. The KOKUYOSA 2026 celebrates its second year at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden. The festival will feature 12 teams competing in two contest rounds, along with parade

performances, workshops, guest performances, traditional Japanese dance and Taiko drumming. Originating in Kochi, Japan, Yosakoi is an energetic style of Japanese dance that combines traditional movement with modern music and choreography.

The event will take place on September 19 and 20.