Kimono exhibitions, Children’s Day crafts, matcha tea ceremonies, Japanese home cooking, origami at Evelyn’s Park, and a Harris County community celebration — here is every Japan-America Society of Houston event happening this May.
May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month — a time to recognize the histories, cultures, and contributions of AANHPI communities across the United States. In Houston, one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world, that recognition takes shape through an extraordinary lineup of events celebrating Japanese culture and fostering community connection all month long.
The Japan-America Society of Houston is proud to be part of that celebration. Here is everything happening in May, and how to be part of it.
Kimono: Tradition and Expression — All Month at Fort Bend Museum
Running the entire month of May, a special exhibition at the Fort Bend Museum in Richmond invites visitors to discover the elegance and artistry of the Japanese kimono. The curated collection features formal garments and obi — the decorative sashes worn with kimono — showcasing centuries of craftsmanship, symbolism, and seasonal design. From bridal robes to ceremonial wear, each piece reflects the depth and beauty of Japanese textile tradition.
This is a rare opportunity to see these garments up close and understand the cultural meaning woven into every fold, color choice, and pattern.
Dates: May 1–31, 2026 Location: Fort Bend Museum, 500 Houston St., Richmond, TX 77469 Website: fortbendmuseum.org
Volunteer — Children’s Day at the Children’s Museum of Houston
Saturday, May 3 at 10 a.m., JASH is looking for volunteers to help bring Japan’s Children’s Day traditions — known as Kodomo no Hi — to life at the Children’s Museum of Houston’s AANHPI Heritage Month celebration. Volunteers will engage families through hands-on crafts and interactive cultural activities, sharing the joy and meaning behind this beloved Japanese holiday with young Houstonians.
This is a meaningful way to give back, connect with the community, and share Japanese culture with a new generation.
Date: Saturday, May 3, 2026, 10 a.m. Location: Children’s Museum Houston, 1500 Binz St., Houston, TX 77004 Volunteer: jas-hou.org
Japan Junction — Children’s Day Celebration at Levy Park
Tuesday, May 6 at 4:30 p.m., JASH’s monthly Japan Junction program at Levy Park takes on a special Children’s Day theme. Enjoy a lively kamishibai performance — Japan’s traditional “paper drama” storytelling — of Peach Boy, the beloved folk tale of courage and perseverance. Create your own koinobori carp streamer craft and celebrate the spirit of youth, growth, and cultural expression.
Perfect for families looking to explore Japanese culture in a hands-on, outdoor setting.
Date: Tuesday, May 6, 2026, 4:30 p.m. Location: Levy Park Event Pavilion, 3801 Eastside St., Houston, TX 77098 More info: jas-hou.org
Volunteer — AANHPI Heritage Month Celebration at John Paul Landing
Saturday, May 9 at 9 a.m., Harris County Precinct 4 Commissioner Lesley Briones hosts the 2nd Annual AANHPI Heritage Month Celebration at John Paul Landing Cricket Grounds in Cypress. JASH is participating with interactive, family-focused programming showcasing Japanese culture and community. Volunteers are needed to help staff the JASH booth and engage families through cultural activities including koinobori craft-making.
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026, 9 a.m. Location: John Paul Landing Cricket Grounds, 24502 West Road, Cypress, TX 77433 Volunteer: jas-hou.org
Family Fold — Origami at Evelyn’s Park
Also on Saturday, May 9 at 11 a.m., JASH’s monthly origami session at Evelyn’s Park in Bellaire celebrates AANHPI Heritage Month with traditional Japanese origami patterns. Fold kabuto helmets, cranes, and decorative boxes while discovering how this timeless art form connects creativity, precision, and cultural expression. All supplies provided, all skill levels welcome, free.
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026, 11 a.m. Location: Evelyn’s Park, 4400 Bellaire Blvd., Bellaire, TX 77401 More info: jas-hou.org
Matcha Tea Ceremony Workshop at George Memorial Library
Saturday, May 9 at 2 p.m., explore the art of matcha through a hands-on cultural experience at George Memorial Library in Richmond. Learn the history, preparation, and etiquette behind Japan’s iconic green tea ceremony, watch a guided demonstration, and try your hand at whisking your own bowl using traditional tools. Savor the flavors while gaining a deeper appreciation for this centuries-old practice.
Date: Saturday, May 9, 2026, 2 p.m. Location: George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview Dr., Richmond, TX 77469 Register: jas-hou.org
Ouchigohan! Japanese Home Cooking with Table for Two and NAJAS
Friday, May 16 at 5 p.m., JASH’s beloved Ouchigohan — “home cooking” in Japanese — returns as a virtual cooking experience in partnership with Table for Two and NAJAS. Cook along or tune in as the session guides participants through Kei-chan Yaki, a savory miso-marinated chicken dish, along with seasonal sides and a strawberry matcha latte. Walk away with practical techniques you can recreate in your own kitchen any night of the week.
Date: Friday, May 16, 2026, 5 p.m. Format: Virtual via Zoom Register: jas-hou.org
Live Kimono Demonstration at Fort Bend Museum
Thursday, May 21 at 6 p.m., experience the artistry of kimono dressing through a live, in-person demonstration at Fort Bend Museum. Observe how each layer, fold, and accessory comes together to create a beautifully styled garment rooted in tradition. Gain insight into the techniques and cultural meaning behind this elegant practice, and enjoy a rare, up-close look at kimono brought to life.
Date: Thursday, May 21, 2026, 6 p.m. Location: Fort Bend Museum, 500 Houston St., Richmond, TX 77469 More info: jas-hou.org
How to Get Involved
Whether you want to attend, volunteer, or cook along from your kitchen, JASH’s May calendar offers something for every age, interest, and schedule. All events are family-friendly and most are free or low-cost.
Japan-America Society of Houston 2990 Richmond Ave., Suite 670, Houston, TX 77098
Phone: (713) 963-0121
Website: jas-hou.org
Facebook and Instagram: @jashouston
