The Springfield Sister Cities Association will host its 12th annual Japanese Fall Festival, Friday, Sept. 5 through Sunday, Sept. 7, 2008, at the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave.

The three-day Festival runs 6 to 10 p.m., Friday, Sept. 5, with a kids parade leading a delegation from Springfield’s sister city of Isesaki, Japan, followed by an opening ceremony. The visiting group “Nawa-no-Kai” practices the traditional form of Japanese martial arts called “Iaido” (ee-I-doe), using swords. Additional members of the group will participate in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and kimono demonstrations at the festival.

Saturday and Sunday festival hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Admission is $5 for adults; $2 for children ages 3-12; and free for toddlers.

Festival highlights include: authentic Japanese drum performance called "taiko", tea ceremonies at the lake-side tea house, nightly candlelight strolls through the garden, authentic Japanese souvenirs, local artisans and performers, kimono shows, early Japanese archeology discussion, and a hands-on activity center for children. Booth vendors include gardening, traditional Japanese crafts, Koi fish, martial arts, photography, and many others.