The beloved Nikkei Matsuri Festival returns to San Jose’s Historic Japantown, bringing together community members and visitors for a vibrant celebration of Japanese American culture, traditions, and heritage. Established in 1978, the annual event has become a longstanding tradition that highlights the richness of the Japanese American experience while supporting the local Japantown community.
Visitors can enjoy cultural exhibits featuring traditional arts like bonsai, ikebana (flower arranging), and classical dance, along with an expanded artisan marketplace showcasing handmade goods. Food is also a major highlight, with local nonprofits serving festival favorites such as imagawayaki, spam musubi, gyoza, shave ice, andagi, and the ever-popular Nikkei Dogs.
WHEN: Sunday, April 26, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m at 5th and Jackson Streets…