WARM BLUE World Autism Awareness Day 2026
From March 31 to April 5, 2026, the Shibuya Font Association will host the "WARM BLUE World Autism Awareness Day 2026" event in Harajuku, coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day on April 2. This important initiative, recognized by the United Nations, aims to foster understanding of autism and developmental disorders through a series of creative workshops and activities. Each year, the day is symbolized by the color blue, representing healing and hope.
The event's centerpiece is the message "You are needed." This marks the second year of WARM BLUE, which began in 2025. During this week-long event, various workshops will take place at the Shibuya Font Lab located in the Tokyu Plaza Harajuku. The aim is to fill the space with heart touches and blue messages, creating an inclusive community where everyone, regardless of their challenges, can live happily.
Event Highlights
This year's WARM BLUE features a collaboration with renowned heart artist Koichi Nishimura, who will lead an interactive heart art workshop similar to last year's successful event. Additionally, the brand-new eco-friendly umbrella-making workshop, using the "SORAKASA KIT," is expected to be a hit. This kit allows participants to create their own unique umbrellas while learning about sustainability.
Key Activities
- - Heart Seal Activity: On April 4 and 5, participants can express their thoughts about autism by placing heart seals on panels in the Harajuku area, creating a giant blue heart together. This activity takes place from 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM and is open for everyone, free of charge.
- - Koichi Nishimura's Window Art Workshop: Scheduled for March 31 and April 1, this workshop will happen at the Shibuya Font Lab and will include window art activities. Participation is also free and open to everyone.
- - Creating Blue Hearts with Masking Tape: From March 31 to April 5, attendees can craft large blue hearts using masking tape on postcards. This creative session is set daily from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- - Personalized Umbrella Workshop using SORAKASA KIT: This delightful workshop enables participants to assemble their own eco-friendly umbrellas on April 4 and 5. This workshop necessitates pre-registration via Peatix and has a fee of 3,300 JPY.
Additional Offerings
In addition to WARM BLUE events, Shibuya Font Lab offers regular workshops that align with the themes of accessibility and creativity. Participants can enjoy:
1. The "Nozomi Maneki Hachiko" paper craft workshop, a blend of technology and traditional crafts, on April 3.
2. The interactive art appreciation experience on April 4 and 5, which encourages dialogue about artworks and their meanings.
Special Rewards During WARM BLUE
Shibuya Font Lab will reward visitors! Anyone spending 1,000 JPY or more at the stores in Harakado can present their receipt to receive a Warm Blue heart sticker, available for the first 200 attendees.
Final Thoughts
Shibuya Font Association remains dedicated to its mission, advocating for a society that embraces diverse characteristics and interpretations while challenging preconceived notions of disability. Together, let us work towards a future where everyone is welcomed and valued. For more details, please visit the
Shibuya Font website.