The Japanese American National Museum presented its annual Natsumatsuri Family Festival on Aug. 16 in conjunction with Nisei Week.
As the main building is closed for renovation, activities were held in the Democracy Center and the Norman Y. Mineta Democracy Plaza.
An Obon lecture and community dance was held in MOCA Geffen Plaza, led by Elaine Fukumoto. Everyone was invited to join in.
Author and professional drift racing driver Nadine Sachiko Hsu read from her new book, “Sachiko and the Bully,” Part 2 of her “Sachiko Goes Racing” series.
The Cold Tofu comedy group performed skits based on audience suggestions and also had members of the audience participate.
Old Japanese Car Meet hosted a Hot Wheels Race Track for die-cast races with scaled speeds.
Guests got a chance to make and decorate their own paper sun hats, add their wishes for America’s’ 250th birthday to the Democracy Center’s “Wish Wall” and go on a scavenger hunt in Little Tokyo. Many also attended the Nisei Week Plaza Festival at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center.
Some activities were related to JANM’s new exhibition, “Cruising J-Town: Behind the Wheel of the Nikkei Community,” now on view at the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena. Guests made origami cars with the “Cruising J-Town” logo and created their own cruise through a town of their own making.
Makoto Taiko wrapped up the festival with a performance in the JANM Courtyard. Kids were invited to try their hand at Japanese drumming.