CANCELED. 2025: 4th Annual Nikkei Celebration Festival Event in Boyle Heights (Parade, Public Ondo, Entertainment & Performances..) SaturdayNEW

July 7, 2025 Update: 4th Annual Nikkei Celebration Cancelled.
We regret to announce that the 4th Annual Nikkei Celebration, originally set for August 2, has been cancelled.

Two key reasons led to this decision:
• The City of L.A.’s Council District 14 could not provide funding this year due to a budget crisis.
• Ongoing ICE immigration sweeps and local protests raised safety concerns for attendees and participants.
We hope they will bring the celebration back next year. 

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2025, the Year of the Snake, is a time of reflection, renewal, and transformation. In Japanese folklore, snakes are revered as wise, intuitive beings that remember every act-rewarding kindness, as told in the tale of a white snake who gifted treasure to a fisherman who saved it. Symbolizing rebirth through the shedding of their skin, snakes also represent tradition, longevity, and spiritual strength. Once worshipped as deities of fertility and weather, their mystical presence continues to inspire hope, prosperity, and the promise of new beginnings.

Annual Nikkei Celebration in Boyle Heights
Presented with the Little Tokyo Historical Society, this event honors the deep roots of Japanese culture in Boyle Heights. We highlight the legacy of Otomisan, the oldest continually operating Japanese restaurant in the area since 1956.

Join us at 5 pm as the parade begins at Saratoga & 1st St (Tenrikyo Church) and ends at Otomisan, where the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles will help open our stage of celebration. Your presence helps preserve Boyle Heights’ vibrant Nikkei heritage.

Little Tokyo Dance Club 
As in past years, our Little Tokyo Dance Club will join the parade and lead the Public Street Ondo with Ryujin Taiko.

• All are welcome to dance in the parade-no experience needed. Just arrive 30 minutes before the start time at the parade route.
• Public Dance Practice: Tuesday, July 29 at the JACCC in Little Tokyo.
• The Public Street Ondo will close out the last two hours of the event.

Festival Date
August 2, 2025, Saturday

Festival Time
5:00 pm - 10:00 pm



Festival Schedule & Map
5:00 pm: Parade Starts at: Saratoga on East First St to Otomisan Restaurant 

• After Parade: Entertainment & Performances
• Public Ondo Dancing 

Where to Park? 
Street Parking only (no designated parking)
• The street will be closed in front of the restaurant and a stage will be setup (that's where entertainment and performances will take place.).

Tips: Recommended to bring blankets to sit on the sidewalk or chairs for the parade.  Limited seating.  

Pets
We welcome everyone - please note that if you bring your pet they must be on a lease and please be prepared to clean up after them).

References

Otomisan Restaurant - Landmark

Event Title
Annual Nikkei Celebration Festival Event in Boyle Heights (Parade, Public Ondo, Entertainment & Performances..) Sunday