Elaine Fukumoto led Bon Odori dancing.
Improv comedy by Cold Tofu under the direction of Mike Palma.
Adults and kids made origami lanterns and frogs.
Edwin Ushiro, creator of the “Breaking Barriers” mural, led an art activity.
Drumming by J-Town Taiko Club.
Local indie band Kotolan performed.
The JANM Band was joined by the museum’s mascot, Kaeru (Frog).
The Japanese American National Museum held its annual Natsumatsuri Family Festival on Aug. 15 at Terasaki Budokan in Little Tokyo.
The entertainment lineup on the Budokan Courtyard stage:
Ukulele music by the JANM Band
Bon Odori community dance led by Elaine Fukumoto
Improv comedy by Cold Tofu
Kotolan, an L.A. band that plays globally influenced indie synth pop rooted in new wave, soul and disco
Drumming by J-Town Taiko Club, which offers classes at Terasaki Budokan
The SOQWallet x Paul Frank Pop-up Shop featured exclusive festival merchandise, collectibles, and fine art.
Mighty Little Studio gave families an opportunity to pose for photos with fun props.
Attendees visited tabling organizations and collected all of the stamps to complete the Stamp Rally and win prizes.
An art activity for kids was overseen by Edwin Ushiro, Terasaki Budokan’s new mural, “Breaking Barriers,” featuring Wat Misaka and Jackie Robinson, who broke the color barrier in basketball and baseball, respectively.
Visitors also had an opportunity to add wishes to the “Wish Wall” for the U.S.’ 250th birthday and explore family and foods with Discover Nikkei.
A second-hand book sale benefited JANM’s Collections Management and Access.
At Ruthie’s Origami Corner, adults and kids learned how to fold origami lanterns and frogs. The activity is named in honor of JANM volunteer Ruthie Kitagawa (1937-2020), who led origami activities for many years.
Crafts also included decorating baseball caps and making paper fans.