Special Events

As a nonprofit organization supported by individuals, foundations, and corporations, Japan Society aims to bring the people of Japan and the United States closer together through mutual understanding, appreciation, and cooperation. In addition to sophisticated and accessible experiences of Japanese art and culture, Japan Society hosts a number of special annual events.

Annual Dinner
An international gathering of business leaders, artists, and friends, the Annual Dinner is a celebration and testament to the shared vision of the people of the U.S. and Japan. Each year, guests are treated to an inspirational program that includes greetings from notable leaders and public figures, along with a captivating musical performance. Past speakers and award recipients include The Hon. Caroline B. Kennedy, former U.S. Ambassador to Japan, George Takei, actor and comedian and Ajay Banga, Executive Chairman of Mastercard.

To register for the 2023 Annual Dinner, please visit this page.

Annual Bash + Benefit Auction
Japan Society’s Annual Bash + Benefit Auction is an evening of festive food and drink, live entertainment, and live auctions benefitting arts and culture programming. The event features paintings, drawings, prints, photographs and objects from established and emerging artists hailing from or influenced by Japan. Auctions are powered by Artsy with support from Sotheby’s. Past auctions have included works by artists such as Hiroshi Sugimoto, Kishio Suga and others.