40th Black Ships Festival celebrates cultural ties between US and Japan
BRISTOL, R.I. (WLNE) — The 40th annual Black Ships Festival is happening in Bristol and Newport this weekend.
The festival is organized by the Japan-America Society of Rhode Island and celebrates the culture of Japan and the relationship between both countries.
“JASRI’s annual Black Ships Festival is based on our belief that deepening understanding across Japanese and American cultures is crucial for the long lasting peace in the future,” the organization said on its website.
A cultural marketplace fair was held at Independence Park in Bristol that featured cultural events like martial arts performances, art, and music, a well as shopping and food.
A gala is scheduled for Saturday night at Ochre Court in Newport, and the Commodore Matthew C. Perry Memorial wreath ceremony will be held at Island Cemetery in Newport on Sunday.
