About the Open Call

The Japan Parade Art Contest invites artists to submit illustrations to be used for the official posters, flyers, and programs of the Japan Parade & Street Fair. The contest aims to promote cultural exchange between Japan and the U.S. and strengthen the solidarity of the Japanese-American community. The theme for 2026 is 'Japan, New York, Parade'. Submissions must be original 2D works suitable for digital transfer.

What is Offered

One Grand Prize winner receives two economy class round-trip tickets from New York to Tokyo, a Citizen brand watch, and Salonpas products. Five Honorable Mention winners receive a watch and Salonpas products. Winners are invited to the Japan Parade VIP Grandstand.

Requirements

Artwork must incorporate all three themes: Japan, New York, and Parade. Must be 2D work only (no photography or AI-generated art). Must be original work of the artist. Only one entry per artist. Artwork must be capable of being digitized in high resolution (H24" x W18").

How to Apply

Submit entries via the official online form at https://japanday.wufoo.com/forms/japan-parade-art-contest-2026/. Files must be in JPEG format, portrait orientation, and under 2MB for the initial submission.