Get ready for a packed final weekend of February and the start of March in Kobe! We have a fantastic mix of community fun, cultural outings, and a huge beer festival happening this Saturday and Sunday, Feb 28th and Mar 1st, 2026.
See our top picks
Kobe International Festa 2026
Kobe International Community House Area
Free interactive cultural day out on Saturday with ALTs.
Coffee Pairing Festival 2026 Kobe
Daimaru Kobe Store, 9th Floor Event Hall
Indoor, family-friendly festival focused on coffee and sweets runs all weekend.
Ongoing Illumination at Meriken Park
Meriken Park
Easy, free evening stroll along the waterfront available both days.
· February 28
2FREE : Spend an afternoon traveling the world without leaving Kobe! ALTs (Assistant Language Teachers) from schools across the city will host booths and activities representing different cultures. A fun, interactive way for kids to learn about global diversity.This is a fantastic, free community event happening only on Saturday, packed with cultural exploration perfect for curious kids.
: If your kids have a sweet tooth, this is a must-visit! Sample unique pairings between 12 specialty coffee shops and 11 different sweets vendors from all over Japan. It's a great way to treat yourselves indoors.This event spans the entire target weekend and offers a delicious indoor activity for parents and older children.
· March 1
3FREE : The park will still be illuminated as this Valentine's event runs until March 15th. Head down in the evening for some beautiful, romantic lighting displays along the waterfront.This is a great free activity for Sunday evening, running right through the target weekend.
OSAKA CASTLE PARK PLUM GROVE FESTIVALFREE : While you might be waiting for cherry blossoms, the plum blossoms in Osaka Castle Park will be peaking now! Enjoy the walk through the groves featuring 1,245 trees of 105 different varieties. The castle grounds are open 24 hours.Early spring blooms are gorgeous, and the park itself is free to wander on Sunday.
: The second and final day for this sweet and savory indoor festival. Perfect for a Sunday afternoon treat where you can guide the kids through trying different combinations of coffee and sweets.Coverage of the Sunday session of this indoor food event.
Also On· anytime this weekend
1: This is your absolute last chance to enjoy the Crayon Shin-Chan themed adventure courses, including the new 'Athletic Challenge.' It’s an active, fun outdoor adventure park on nearby Awaji Island.The event officially ends on Saturday, making this the final opportunity for Shin-Chan fans to visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Kobe this weekend?
The best free option is the KOBE INTERNATIONAL FESTA 2026 on Saturday, February 28th. Additionally, the evening illumination displays at Meriken Park are free to view on both Saturday and Sunday evenings.
Are there any activities outside Kobe city limits this weekend?
Yes, there are excellent day trips available, including the Crayon Shin-Chan Adventure Park on Awaji Island (last day Saturday) and art installations at the Kyoto Nippon Festival, both running the full weekend.
What indoor activities are available for families this weekend?
The Coffee Pairing Festival 2026 Kobe at Daimaru (running both days) is a great indoor option for treats, and the Kobe Beer Jamboree 2026 at the International Exhibition Hall is also fully indoors.
