Kyoko Stevens (center) serves green tea to Sophia Armstrong, during a chado ceremony. The steps of the traditional ritual were demonstrated by Soko Takako Osumi, at left.There were plenty of crafts and games for the little ones, including the ball-fishing game successfully mastered by a young visitor.Fans of the Jpop group J-Pop group MoeAge! sang along and waved light sticks.A visitor takes a moment for meditation and healing.The sweet and creamy mini castella cakes from Amamiya-ya in Gardena were hot sellers – literally.A trio of young oarsmen command the spotlight during a performance by Ohana Polynesian Dancers.J-Pop group MoeAge! from Asayoru Maid Cafe in Monterey Park brought their music and stage show to the City Council chambers.Photos by MIKEY HIRANO CULROSS / Rafu Shimpo
The City of Monterey Park marked the 25th anniversary of its local Cherry Blossom Festival with festivities April 12-13 at Barnes Park and inside its City Council chambers.
Established in 1970, the festival was short-lived at first, but was resurrected by volunteers in the late 1990s and was adopted as an official annual event by the city.
This year’s gathering took place under picture-perfect conditions, with visitors and participants enjoying sunny skies and mild temperatures.
The celebration of Nikkei culture included traditional arts as well as modern attractions, including musical and dance performances, crafts, a mochi and manju demonstration by Fugetsu-Do, local artists, civic organizations, a fashion show and even magic from festival co-emcee Wayne Kawamoto.
