GVJCI Matsuri Fundraiser on June 27

The Matsuri Fundraiser — the Gardena Valley Japanese Cultural Institute’s largest annual fundraiser, now celebrating 76 years — will be held on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at GVJCI, 1964 W. 162nd St., Gardena.

The GVJCI Matsuri, a South Bay tradition enjoyed by generations, has always been a festive time when member organizations, sponsors, board members, staff and supporters gather to volunteer and raise funds to support the GVJCI. It is 100% volunteer-run with all proceeds benefiting GVJCI programs, services, and facilities.

Food and game booths: GVJCI member organizations and classes that are housed at the GVJCI lend their volunteer support to run all of the booths, including fun games such as bingo or the ever-popular Pitch ‘Til U Win, or cooking/selling tasty food like chicken teriyaki, hot Dogs, chili dogs, Spam musubi, shaved ice, Okinawa andagi — and Imagawayaki is back.

Performances: Arrive early, get some food, grab a seat, and be ready to be entertained by the many talented people at the GVJCI. Many classes and programs will be showcased, such as taiko, hula, Japanese traditional dance, singing, and line dancing. See what these performers learn throughout the year, and maybe you’ll be encouraged to join them at their weekly classes and perform next year.

Martial arts demonstrations: Ever wonder what various martial arts disciplines entail? Now is the time to find out. Naginata, kendo, and aikido classes will be featured along with Judo Club and Kyudo Renmei (Japanese archery). This is the perfect time to see if one is for you and/or your family.

Outdoor plant sale: The most popular booth year after year. Supporting nurseries and gracious community plant enthusiasts donate beautiful plants from their businesses and backyards. Nursery experts also volunteer their time to answer your most intricate questions about growing and maintaining your new plants.

Bingo: Try your luck. Games begin at 4 p.m. with chances to win cash and prizes.

Beer Garden: Adults 21+ can grab a beer, relax, and catch up with friends. This year local craft brewery Smog City’s Kampai! From Torrance will feature West Coast IPA, Sapporo Premium Light Beer, Sapporo Non-Alcohol Beer, Asahi Beer and Budweiser Beer.

Holding station: Are your hands full of food items, white elephant treasures, and crafts … and you want to purchase a drink? Take all of your belongings to the holding station, where volunteers will keep a watchful eye on your items. After roaming the Matsuri “hands-free,” drive your car by the loading zone and pick up your goodies.

The Bridge: GVJCI Heritage Center: Visit the Japanese Cultural Heritage Library and the educational tokonoma display; visit the Japanese Language School and receive the information you need to enroll in the upcoming fall session; learn about Community Emergency Response; visit the Tomo No Kai art and ikebana class’ display; purchase beautiful handmade crafts from Tomo No Kai seniors,

Mega Matsuri Raffle: Win Dodgers tickets and other great prizes. Visit the website for list of raffle prizes. The drawing will be held near closing time.

Note: GVJCI Matsuri is cashless. Presale coupons (PSC), credit and debit cards, and scrip accepted. You can purchase food, plants and items with your credit card, debit card, scrip or PSC Coupon books are being distributed through member organizations. You can also visit the GVJCI office.

Coupon books are only sold prior to the Matsuri by member organizations and at the office. Each book contains 10 $2 coupons that can be used at all Matsuri booths, plus bonus hourly raffle drawing entries. Return completed raffle tickets to the office before June 26 or on June 27 by 12 p.m.

For more information, call (310) 324-6611, email info@jci-gardena.org or visit www.jci-gardena.org or www.facebook.com/GVJCI.