Home » City Guide »

2016 Nihonmachi Street Fair

Two days and 30,000 people celebrate in Japantown
By - posted 8/6/2016 No Comment

The Nihonmachi Street Fair considers itself the original “melting pot” of street fairs, with many aspects of Asian-Pacific American life—and San Francisco’s cultural life—expressed through performance, tradition, art, music, food, and community outreach and service. Over 30,000 festival attendees have made their way to the fair in past years. 

2016 Nihonmachi Street Fair
Saturday & Sunday, August 6-7, 2016 | 11 am to 6 pm
Japantown, San Francisco
FREE, but donations are gratefully accepted

This 2016 at NSF:

The Nihonmachi Street Fair‘s entertainment has always been one of the most favorite features of the fair. From Hip Hop to Reggae, Jazz to Blue Grass they’ve showcased the many genres of music. Sit back and let the music groove you.

On the Clear Channel Outdoor Stage, the Nihonmachi Street Fair will bring together again a diverse cultural line-up of performers that will include Hawaiian music and dance, Japanese dance, and much more.

Event Highlights:

  • Art & Soul of Jtown (Saturday, August 6)
    The Art & Soul of J-town is a new feature of the Nihonmachi Street Fair (NSF). Their hope is to bring together and showcase the many Asian artists in our diverse APA communities. This year, they will commemorate the 110th Anniversary of the of San Francisco’s Japantown, home base for the Nihonmachi Street Fair.
  • Doggie World (Sunday, August 7)
    A gathering place for the four-legged members of our community to join in on the fun. Local animal experts and adoption agencies will also be on hand to offer tips and information. This year’s highlights include pet vendors, rescues/adoptions, Ask the Dogtor, parade/Wag Bags, contest, DIY doggie crafts, and a photo booth.
  • Asian Artisans
    The Asian Artisan area of the Niihonmachi Street Fair has welcomed a wide variety of artistic talent from all over the Bay Area and beyond. You’ll find a great selection of hand made crafts all created with an artistic eye. It’s a great opportunity to meet the artist and ask questions about their craft.
  • Asian American Adult CoEd Basketball Tournament
    We have the opportunity to bring the players, their families and friends to not only participate in this co-ed basketball competition, but also create new friendships as well as supporting the Nihonmac/hi Street Fair.
  • Children’s World
    Children’s World provides families to engage their little ones in Asian inspired crafts and test their skills in fun games. It’s also a great way to introduce children to this important community event and encourage them to come back to volunteer when they get older.
  • Food Fest
    At this year’s Nihonmachi Street Fair Food Fest, you’ll get a chance to experience both and support local nonprofits as well as businesses. From terriyaki burgers to adobo, okonomiyaki to waffles, there’s something for everyone.
  • Sounds of Thunder
    You’ll be able to see close-up fabulous muscle cars and vintage trucks from back in the day. A great way to share your love of vintage car and also learn more about these American classics. Approximately 15 – 20 cars will be showcased on both days.