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Forwarded for the Nisei Week Foundation
Enjoyed by thousands every summer, come join the downtown Los Angeles community at the 76th Annual Nisei Week Japanese Festival in Los Angeles' Little Tokyo.
One of the nation's longest running ethnic festivals of its kind, the events will take place August 13-21. The Festival showcases free Japanese cultural events, activities and exhibits, including music and entertainment, food and fun games spanning two weekends.
The 10th annual free Tanabata Festival (August 13-14) will color Little Tokyo's Central Avenue and Museum of Contemporary Art (Geffen) between Temple and First streets with large, assorted streamers (kazari).
Individuals, families, community groups, businesses, churches, temples, and others have contributed there one of a kind displays.
Plenty of entertainment such as Taiko, Geta Tap, martial arts exhibitions, and activities will be available for the entire family at the Plaza Festival at the Japanese American Community and Cultural Center (JACCC), Saturday and Sunday. Additionally, free cultural exhibits such as bonsai, calligraphy, Ikebana, and more will be on display.
Routed through the streets of Little Tokyo on Sunday, August 14, the Grand Parade will begin at 4 p.m. The parade will include Japanese traditional dancers, led by 2016 Nisei Week Choreographer, Madame Hanayagi Rokufukumi, Japanese taiko drums, Haneto dancers preceded by a large Nebuta float made of special Japanese paper.
The second weekend (August 20-21) continues with more free exhibits and cultural events at the JACCC. On August 20, come watch the 10th Annual Day-Lee Foods Gyoza Eating Championship, where world hot dog-eating champions Matt Stonie and Joey Chestnut will attempt to break the record of 384 Gyoza eaten in 10 minutes. The Gyoza championship will be taking place on stage at the JACCC.
To close another year of Nisei Week, Ondo street dancing will be held on August 21 at 4 p.m. on Little Tokyo's First Street. The public is encouraged to join in this Japanese street dancing ritual. Nisei Week activities will be held in various locations throughout Little Tokyo, including the JACCC at 244 S. San Pedro Street.
For parking, please visit the Nisei Week website. Both weekends feature live entertainment, food and fun for the entire family. Take part and experience one of LA's premier summer cultural events.
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