The rhythmic pounding of mochi echoes through Ottawa as the Japanese community celebrates their beloved New Year tradition! Mochitsuki 2025 returns to the Preston Event Centre on December 7, bringing over 40 years of cultural celebration to Canada’s capital.
Mochitsuki, the traditional Japanese mochi-making festival, offers Ottawa residents a unique opportunity to experience authentic Japanese culture, taste freshly made mochi, and enjoy performances by local Japanese cultural groups. This annual event organized by the Ottawa Japanese Community Association has become a cherished tradition in the city’s multicultural calendar.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Mochitsuki 2025 takes place December 7 at Preston Event Centre. Experience traditional mochi pounding, Japanese cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, and shop for Japanese food products. A 40+ year Ottawa tradition.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Date | December 7, 2025 |
| 📍 Location | Preston Event Centre, 523 St. Anthony Street |
| 🎟️ Admission | Check OJCA website |
| ⏰ Time | Daytime event |
What is Mochitsuki?
The Tradition Explained
Mochitsuki is the traditional Japanese ceremony of pounding steamed rice into mochi, a sticky rice cake that holds special significance in Japanese culture:
- Mochi represents good fortune and prosperity for the New Year
- Pounding ceremony involves rhythmic teamwork between two people
- One person pounds with a large wooden mallet (kine)
- Another person turns the rice between strikes
- Freshly made mochi is shaped and enjoyed by participants
Cultural Significance
In Japan, mochi is an essential part of New Year celebrations:
- Traditionally made in late December
- Symbolizes the hope for a prosperous year ahead
- Represents the passing of one year to the next
- Brings families and communities together
- Creates connections between generations
Illustrative image only.
Festival Activities
Mochi Pounding
The main attraction of Mochitsuki:
- Watch skilled practitioners demonstrate the traditional pounding technique
- Try your hand at pounding mochi yourself
- Learn about the history and significance of the tradition
- Sample freshly made mochi
- Take home mochi to share with family
Cultural Performances
The festival showcases Ottawa’s vibrant Japanese cultural scene:
- Taiko drumming performances
- Traditional Japanese dance
- Martial arts demonstrations
- Musical performances
- Cultural presentations
Marketplace
Shop for Japanese goods and treats:
- Japanese food products
- Traditional crafts
- Cultural items
- Specialty ingredients
- Local vendor offerings
Ottawa Japanese Community Association
40+ Years of Tradition
The OJCA-OJCC has organized Mochitsuki for over four decades:
- Founded in 1976 as a non-profit organization
- Preserves Japanese culture in Ottawa
- Connects generations of Japanese Canadians
- Welcomes all Ottawans to experience Japanese traditions
- Educates the community about Japanese heritage
Year-Round Programming
Beyond Mochitsuki, the OJCA offers:
- Japanese language classes
- Cultural workshops
- Community events throughout the year
- Support for Japanese Canadians
- Cultural exchange programs
Illustrative image only.
Venue Information
Preston Event Centre
The festival takes place at the Preston Event Centre in Little Italy:
Address: 523 St. Anthony Street, Ottawa, ON K1R 6Z9
Getting There:
- Located in the vibrant Little Italy neighbourhood
- Accessible by OC Transpo buses
- Street parking available in the area
- Near Carling Avenue and Preston Street intersection
What to Expect
Plan for an enriching experience:
- Indoor venue (weather-protected)
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Interactive activities
- Food sampling opportunities
- Cultural learning experiences
Planning Your Visit
Tips for Attendees
Make the most of Mochitsuki:
- Arrive with an appetite for mochi and Japanese treats
- Bring cash for marketplace purchases
- Wear comfortable shoes for standing
- Come with curiosity about Japanese culture
- Bring the whole family
Advance Mochi Purchase
For those who want to ensure they get mochi:
- Advance purchase options available through OJCA
- Check the OJCA website for ordering details
- Different processes for members and non-members
- Pickup dates announced on OJCA website
Why Attend Mochitsuki?
Cultural Experience
Mochitsuki offers rare opportunities:
- Experience authentic Japanese tradition
- Learn about cultural significance of mochi
- Watch skilled practitioners demonstrate ancient techniques
- Participate in hands-on activities
- Expand your cultural horizons
Community Connection
The event brings people together:
- Meet members of Ottawa’s Japanese community
- Connect with other culture enthusiasts
- Support a non-profit organization
- Experience Ottawa’s multicultural richness
- Create lasting memories
Family-Friendly Fun
Perfect for all ages:
- Interactive demonstrations engage children
- Performances entertain the whole family
- Food options for all tastes
- Educational opportunities
- Safe, welcoming environment
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is mochi? A: Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made from pounded glutinous rice. It has a chewy, sticky texture and can be eaten plain, filled with sweet bean paste, or prepared in various other ways.
Q: Can I try pounding mochi myself? A: Yes! Mochitsuki typically allows attendees to try their hand at the traditional pounding technique under guidance from experienced practitioners.
Q: Is the event family-friendly? A: Absolutely. Mochitsuki is designed for all ages, with performances, demonstrations, and activities that engage children and adults alike.
Q: Do I need to be Japanese to attend? A: Not at all. The OJCA welcomes everyone interested in experiencing Japanese culture. The event is open to all members of the Ottawa community.
Q: Will there be food available? A: Yes. Beyond mochi, the marketplace features Japanese food products and treats for purchase.
Final Thoughts
Mochitsuki 2025 offers Ottawa residents a wonderful opportunity to experience authentic Japanese culture without leaving the city. For over 40 years, the Ottawa Japanese Community Association has shared this beautiful tradition with the capital, bringing together people of all backgrounds in celebration.
Whether you’re of Japanese heritage reconnecting with tradition, a curious foodie wanting to try fresh mochi, or a family looking for a unique cultural experience, Mochitsuki delivers something special. The combination of traditional demonstrations, cultural performances, and community warmth creates an unforgettable afternoon.
Visit the OJCA website at ojca.ca for more information about Mochitsuki 2025 and other upcoming events.
Source: Ottawa Japanese Community Association, Ottawa Tourism - Compiled for Via Ottawa readers.
For more Ottawa cultural events, visit Ottawa Events or explore Things to Do!
