Cheekwood Moon Viewing Festival 2026

On Sunday, September 27, 2026, the Consulate-General of Japan in Nashville co-hosted the Moon Viewing Festival with Cheekwood Estate and Gardens. U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty and Nashville Mayor Freddie O’Connell attended the opening ceremony, together with Jane MacLeod, CEO and President of the Cheekwood Estate and Gardens and Consul-General Shinji Watanabe. In his remarks, Consul-General Watanabe expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported the preparation and operation of the festival. He also explained the importance of otsukimi, the moon viewing tradition through which Japanese people savor the changing seasons and the atmosphere of autumn. This was followed by the announcement of the winners of the haiku contest held for the festival.

  After sunset, while gazing at the moon hovering in the sky, attendees enjoyed taiko drumming, shamisen and shakuhachi performances, a kimono show, and a tea ceremony demonstration on the main stage. Across the festival, visitors could participate in mochi pounding, see kamishibai, and listen to performances of traditional Japanese songs. There were also exhibitions and demonstrations introducing Japanese culture including ikebana, bonsai, and calligraphy.