August 16–23, 2026
Celebrate Japanese and Japanese American culture during Nisei Week, a week-long celebration in Little Tokyo featuring community festivals, cultural performances, food, music, martial arts, a grand parade, and traditional Japanese dancing. Families can visit throughout the week for different events and activities, culminating in the annual Ondo street dancing and closing ceremony.
FESTIVITIES:
Sunday, August 16 – JX Matsuri
Kick off the festivities with a carnival-style community event at Weller Court celebrating Japanese entertainment, food brands, and pop culture from 11:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Sunday, August 16 – Grand Parade
Watch the streets of Little Tokyo come alive with Japanese dancers, musicians, floats, and more during Nisei Week’s signature Grand Parade from 4:00–6:00 PM.
Friday & Saturday, August 21–22 – Crazy Talented Asians
Enjoy a star-studded musical cabaret hosted by AJ Rafael celebrating the Little Tokyo community at the David Henry Hwang Theater from 7:30–9:30 PM.
Saturday, August 22 – Plaza Festival
Head to the JACCC Plaza from 11:00 AM–8:00 PM for a family-friendly Japanese festival featuring food, games, booths, and live entertainment.
Saturday, August 22 – Karate Exhibition & Tournament
Watch karate demonstrations and competition presented by Shotokan Karate of America at Terasaki Budokan from 1:00–4:00 PM.
Sunday, August 23 – Plaza Festival
The family-friendly Japanese festival continues at JACCC Plaza from 11:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Sunday, August 23 – Hayashi Concert
Experience traditional Japanese music as Fuji Japanese Music, Inc. presents a Hayashi Concert featuring Grand Master Kisaku Katada IV at Rafu Chuo Gakuen School from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM.
Sunday, August 23 – Ondo Public Street Dancing & Closing Ceremony
Join the festival finale on 1st Street beginning at 4:00 PM with the Japanese tradition of public street dancing, live entertainment, and Nisei Week’s closing ceremony.
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Before You Go: Check with the event host or organizer for the most up-to-date details before attending.
Looking for more family fun? Explore more family-friendly events on our blog, browse our calendar, check out limited-time exhibits and experiences, or subscribe to our newsletter for weekly updates.
