Showcase of Japanese cultural events, activities and exhibits, including music, entertainment, food, and fun
August 14, 2021
Events Overview
Come join the downtown Los Angeles community at the Nisei Week Japanese Festival in historic Little Tokyo
Virtual Experience
Celebrating community, culture, and the place so many see as home – Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo – through our Nisei Week Virtual Experience.
Grand Parade
Takes place on the streets of Little Tokyo with Japanese cultural participants, including dancers, musicians, floats and more
Baby Show
A fun, family event for children ranging from 1 to 6 years
Cultural Exhibits
Sunset on the Plaza
Nisei Week’s night event for pop-up food vendors, entertainment, and more
Awards Dinner
Honoring exemplary individuals and organizations
Gyoza Eating Championship
West Coast’s premier competitive eating event sponsored by Day-Lee Foods
Car Show
Japanese car enthusiasts gather to check out the unique auto entries
Queen Coronation
The community gathers to cheer on their favorite candidate
Pioneer Spirit Luncheon
Celebrating friends and leaders in our community
Taiko Gathering
Drum performances presented in part by the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs
Aki’s Pup Up Party
Hang out with our mascot Aki to shop, eat, and have fun with pups
Ondo & Closing Ceremony
The Japanese tradition of dancing in the streets with live entertainment and more
Maps & Transportation
See below for the key Festival locations including nearby hotels, parking lots and parade route. Click on each marker to get directions or learn more about them.
Points of Interest
Click on Toggle for more info
Festival Locations
- JACCC
- Japanese Village Plaza
- Japanese American National Museum
- Centenary United Methodist Church
- Go For Broke National Education Center
- Nishi Hongwanji Los Angeles Betsuin
- Terasaki Budokan Community Gymnasium
Parking Lots
- Japanese Village Plaza Parking Lot
- Aiso Parking Garage
- Sho Tokyo Parking Garage
- City of Los Angeles Parking Lot 2
- City of Los Angeles Parking Lot 7
- Mangrove Parking Lot
- Centenary United Methodist Church
Area Hotels
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
- Miyako Hotel
- Hotel Indigo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nisei Week Japanese Festival?
The Nisei Week Japanese Festival is a nine-day cultural event held in the historic Little Tokyo District of Downtown Los Angeles. We are proud to be one of the longest running ethnic festivals in the United States. With leadership from the Nisei Week Foundation and vital support from local, national and international businesses, the Festival continues to thrive in size and scope.
What does the Nisei Week Foundation do?
The Nisei Week Foundation was established in 1999 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization to oversee and organize the Nisei Week Japanese Festival and raise funds to produce the annual event.
How can I support Nisei Week?
We welcome your support and involvement with the festival. The Nisei Week Foundation is deeply grateful for the generosity of its volunteers and donors. Community participation ensures the festival legacy continues on. For more information on how to support Nisei Week, please call 213.687.7193 or click here.
How do I get there and where do I park?
For a complete list of parking locations in and around Little Tokyo during Nisei Week, please go to the Maps & Transportation page.
What does the logo mean?
The Nisei Week Foundation logo is the Japanese character matsuri, meaning festival.
Where can I get a listing of Nisei Week events?
Nisei Week offers a variety of cultural events and activities. There are many opportunities to participate during the festival plus special events throughout the year. Check out Events Overview for an updated schedule.
Note many of the events are free. Click here to see a listing of Nisei Week events and admission/parking information.
Who is Nisei Week operated by?
Nisei Week is produced entirely by volunteers. Thousands of hours each year are invested by individuals from:
- corporations and local businesses
- religious and community organizations
- high school and college service groups
Where can I buy Nisei Week merchandise?
Nisei Week is honored to partner with Japangeles to create limited edition merchandise. Please visit Japangeles during the festival at:
141 Japanese Village Plaza
Los Angeles, CA 90012