The Japan-America Society of Saint Louis (JAS) was founded in 1967 with the mission to promote friendship, understanding, and exchange between the people of Japan and St. Louis. It serves as the major information and resource center about Japan in the St. Louis Metropolitan region. The Society also serves as the umbrella organization for the Japanese Activities Committee, Japan America Society Women’s Association, and Seinen-kai (Association of Young Men and Women), and supports the St. Louis Japanese Language School in St. Louis. Our largest community engagement is the annual Japanese festival, held at the Missouri Botanical Garden every Labor Day weekend. The 3-day festival is one of the largest and oldest Japanese festivals in North America, drawing 30,000 to 40,000 visitors annually. The Society also partners with local institutions such as universities and museums to produce authentic Japanese educational and cultural programs and events. We also offer regular ikebana workshops and tea ceremonies, an annual Shinnenkai New Year celebration, business networking events with expert speakers, and an golf tournament. JAS has also added a Japan-themed Trivia Night to our line-up of annual events. Membership is open to all individuals, regardless of heritage, who are interested in Japan and US-Japan relations. The Society provides opportunities to make new friends, to learn about and experience Japanese culture, and to network with civic, educational, and business leaders with Japan interests. The Society also provides leadership opportunities, including for young people. The Japan America Society of St. Louis is a 501(c) (3) educational, cultural, and business networking organization with a volunteer board. The Office of International Studies and Programs at University of Missouri-St. Louis provides office space and operational support.