Oshogatsu 2026 – The Japanese New Year!

Join us at Boston Children's Museum for Oshogatsu 2026, the celebration of the Japanese New Year! Experience lively programs featuring taiko drumming, shishimai lion dance, omikuji fortunes, and other exciting activities. Visit the Japanese House exhibit—an authentic Kyoto home from the 1800s located on the Museum's third floor to view special New Year's decorations. Come together to welcome the Year of the Horse!

This event is held in partnership between Boston Children’s Museum and the Japan Society of Boston. These two organizations proudly honor their long tradition of welcoming Oshogatsu together. Mark your calendar, bring your friends and family, and be part of a joyful celebration.

Activities include:

• Wadaiko Japanese Taiko Drumming (Odaiko New England)

• Shishimai Lion Dance & Parade (Steve Long & Ako Hiratsuka)

• Mochitsuki Rice Pounding (Boston Japanese Community & Japanese Language School of Boston Volunteers)

• Hands-on Weaving Experience (Mihoko Wakabayashi of Mihoko Textiles)

• Nengajo Design Contest Award Ceremony (Consulate General of Japan in Boston)

• And more!

Time

Festivities will take place between 10:00am-3:00pm. The Museum is open 9:00am-4:00pm.

Tickets

The Boston Children's Museum highly recommends reserving tickets in advance through their website. Note that $1 tickets are available for visits between 1:00-4:00pm on Sundays, listed at the bottom of the Discount Tickets page.

Unaccompanied Adults

People of all ages are welcome for this event, including adults! However, please note that the Museum has an unaccompanied adults policy, and any adult-only groups will be asked to follow the process described here.

Other

Please see the Museum's website for other visitor information, policies, and access instructions.