Discover the best cultural events in Little Tokyo this summer

The Nisei Week Grand Parade is set to take place on Sunday, August 11, 2024, in the historic streets of Little Tokyo, Los Angeles. This annual event is a vibrant celebration of Japanese culture and heritage, featuring traditional Japanese dancers, taiko drummers, community groups, and the newly crowned Nisei Week Queen and Court. The parade will be led by KABC Eyewitness News anchor David Ono as the Grand Marshal, with actress Amy serving as the Parade Marshal. The event begins at 4 pm and is free and open to the public. The parade route starts on Central Ave., heads west down Second St., north on San Pedro St., and east on First St. For any inquiries, attendees can email [email protected].

The Nisei Week Grand Parade is a significant cultural event that draws thousands of spectators each year. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Japanese American community in Los Angeles and their contributions to the city’s cultural fabric. The parade not only showcases traditional Japanese arts but also serves as a platform for community groups to come together and celebrate their shared heritage.

Keiro no Hi Festival: Honoring the Elderly

On Saturday, September 21, 2024, the seventh annual Keiro no Hi Festival will be held at the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo. This festival, which runs from 10 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., is dedicated to honoring older adults and their life achievements and contributions. The event will feature live entertainment by local older adult performers, access to JANM exhibitions, hosted bento lunch, and various vendors. Complimentary transportation will be available from various locations in Los Angeles, Orange, and Ventura counties on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Beverly Ito, Keiro’s president & CEO, emphasized the importance of this event, stating, “Our Community would not be here today if it were not for the efforts of the generations that have come before us.” Registration is required to participate, and interested individuals can reserve their spot by visiting keiro.org/knh. Registration opens on Wednesday, July 3, and will close when spots are filled or by Friday, August 30. Space is limited this year, so early registration is encouraged.

The Keiro no Hi Festival is a heartfelt tribute to the elderly members of the community, recognizing their invaluable contributions and serving as a model for aging with confidence and vitality. It is a day filled with joy, respect, and appreciation, reflecting the deep-rooted cultural values of the Japanese American community.

Bar Suehiro: A New Chapter for a Beloved Institution

Kenji Suzuki, the second-generation owner of Suehiro Café, has recently opened Bar Suehiro in Downtown LA’s Historic Core. This new venture comes after the restaurant was forced to relocate from its original location in Little Tokyo, where it had been a staple for over 52 years. The new space, which previously housed Josef Centeno’s P.Y.T., offers a much larger and grander setting, complete with two bar areas and high ceilings.

The journey to opening Bar Suehiro was not without challenges. Securing a Type 47 liquor license, which allows the sale of hard liquor, is notoriously difficult and expensive, often costing well over six figures. However, Suzuki’s broker managed to secure a license through a lottery held by the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, drawing lucky number 15 out of a few dozen new licenses issued statewide.

Bar Suehiro, which officially opens to the public on Wednesday, July 31, features a craft cocktail menu inspired by Tokyo’s famous whiskey bars and American cocktail lounges. The menu includes classic cocktails and unique house creations, with prices ranging from $16 to $32. The bar also offers nonalcoholic cocktails and a selection of bar snacks, including Kakinotane, a mix of roasted peanuts and crescent-shaped rice crackers.

Huy Nang Pham, a seasoned bartender with experience at Seven Grand and Steep After Dark, is the mastermind behind Bar Suehiro’s drinks and concept. Pham aims to create an intimate sit-down drinking experience, best enjoyed in small groups. The opening of Bar Suehiro marks a bold new chapter for Suehiro Café, which has been a beloved institution in the Japanese American community since its founding in 1972.

Our Advice on the City

Los Angeles offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, and Little Tokyo stands out as a vibrant hub of Japanese American heritage. For occasional travelers, we recommend visiting during one of the many cultural festivals, such as the Nisei Week Grand Parade or the Keiro no Hi Festival. These events provide a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture and witness the strong sense of community that defines Little Tokyo.

For expert travelers, consider exploring the local culinary scene. Bar Suehiro, with its expertly crafted cocktails and intimate atmosphere, is a must-visit. Additionally, take the time to visit the Japanese American National Museum to gain a deeper understanding of the history and contributions of Japanese Americans in Los Angeles.

In conclusion, Little Tokyo is a neighborhood that beautifully blends tradition and modernity, offering a wealth of experiences for both occasional and seasoned travelers. Whether you’re attending a cultural festival, enjoying a craft cocktail, or exploring the rich history of the area, Little Tokyo promises to leave a lasting impression.