Bunka No Hi
2025-11-04 11:00 - 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | JCCCW, 1414 South Weller Street, Seattle, 98144
Sunday, November 4, 2025. Bunka no Hi is back for 2025! This year’s event will explore “Finding New Beauty – Artful Mending”, focusing on ways that broken items can be repaired or upcycled in a functional, yet visually appealing way. Come to the JCCCW on Sunday, November 2nd between 11 AM and 5 PM. Participants can learn about various traditional arts, from kintsugi with Jen Lo, sashiko with Shannon and Jason, and kogin-zashi with Satomi Toraya!
Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy demonstrations such as sumo by Rain City Sumo, tea ceremony by East-West Chanoyu Center, and shakuhachi by Patrick Johnson. We’ll once again be joined by Tokara Confectionery and Kozmo Kitchen, who will have food available for purchase during the event (while supplies last).
More details, including a performance schedule, will be posted on the event page on our website. We hope you will join us and discover more about traditional Japanese patterns, try hands-on activities, and enjoy Japanese food and entertainment during this fun-filled Culture Day! This event is free to attend and open to all.

Ayame Kai Holiday Market
2025-11-15 10:00 - 14:00 | Tukwila Community Center, 12424 42nd Ave South, Tukwila, 98168
Saturday, November 15, 2025.
Celebrate the season at the Ayame Kai Holiday Market!
This festive annual event brings together local vendors and Keiro Northwest volunteers for a one-day-only sale featuring a unique mix of fun Asian gifts, homemade holiday treats, arts and crafts, raffle prizes, and seasonal cheer. It’s the perfect way to shop local, support a great cause, and get into the holiday spirit!

Jake Shimabukuro Holidays in Hawaii
2025-12-01 19:00 - 21:30 | Kirkland Performance Center, 636 7th Avenue, Kirkland, 98033
Monday, December 1, 2025. Jake Shimabukuro’s Holidays in Hawai’i featuring Jackson Waldhoff & Justin Kawika Young.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the magical spirit of the holidays as the ukulele virtuoso and beloved ambassador of aloha, Jake Shimabukuro, presents his highly anticipated seasonal extravaganza: Jake Shimabukuro, Holidays in Hawai’i! This festive show promises to be a sensational gift to music lovers worldwide, delivering an unforgettable experience filled with joy, warmth, and the infectious charm of the ukulele.
Jake Shimabukuro’s unparalleled talent on the ukulele has captivated audiences around the globe, and now he’s here to spread his unique brand of holiday cheer. Prepare to be enchanted as he strums his way through a dynamic repertoire that combines his signature show favorites with a vibrant collection of holiday classics. From the timeless melodies of “We Three Kings” and “O Holy Night” to the playful tunes of “All I Want For Christmas Is You” and “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” Jake will transport you to a musical wonderland, reimagining these beloved songs in his own inimitable style.
But that’s not all! As a special treat, Jake will also showcase selections from his new album “Grateful,” which is the follow-up to the critically acclaimed duets album with artists from Willie Nelson, Ziggy Marley and Bette Midler to Jimmy Buffett, Jack Johnson, and Kenny Loggins. It was these collaborations that inspired him to go back to the beginning and play with the musicians who first inspired him as he was growing up in Hawai`i. Jake shares a connection with each and every artist on this album.
Joining Jake Shimabukuro on stage will be the talented bassist Jackson Waldhoff, whose rhythmic prowess will provide the perfect foundation for the melodic brilliance of the ukulele. Additionally, the show will feature the soulful and captivating voice of special guest singer-songwriter Justin Kawika Young. Together, this exceptional ensemble will create an atmosphere of pure merriment, ensuring that spirits remain bright throughout the entire performance.
Jake Shimabukuro, Holidays in Hawai’i is not just a concert; it’s a celebration of the holiday season, a fusion of musical excellence, and a testament to the power of harmonious unity. So, gather your loved ones, embrace the magic of the ukulele, and let Jake Shimabukuro transport you to a world where music and the spirit of aloha intertwine to create an unforgettable holiday experience. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary celebration – book your tickets now and prepare to embark on a musical journey like no other!

Mochi Tsuki 2026
2026-01-10 11:00 - 15:00 | Woodward Middle School, 9125 Sportsman Club Rd NE,, Bainbridge Island, Washington, 98110
Saturday, January 10, 2026. Save the date! Mochi Tsuki is back. Free entry.
Seattle Kokon Taiko is back with two shows: 11:45 am and 2:00 pm.
NEW this year!

Learn to play the ancient game of GO
Learn about the new Japanese American Museum of WA
Two food vendors: Sushiko and Grillipino

Parking: There will be complimentary shuttle service from 10:30-3:30 from the Island Church and Bethany Lutheran parking lots.
We always welcome volunteers for both the Kitchen and the Front of the House.

Peace is Possible
2026-01-25 10:00 - 15:30 | Seattle Judo Dojo, 1510 South Washington Street, Seattle, 98144
Sunday, January 25, 2026. Nuclear Weapons Awareness presents an exhibition with educational materials from the renowned Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum that delves deep into the history, effects and future of nuclear weapons.
This exhibition is designed to help us all better understand the immense impact of nuclear arms in our world and to encourage a collective commitment towards disarmament and peace.
Please follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
www.nuclearweapons-awareness.org

Lunar New Year Family Fair
2026-01-31 10:00 - 15:00 | Wing Luke Museum, 719 S. King Street, Seattle, 98104
Saturday, January, 31, 2026. Did you know the Fire Horse cycle occurs only once every 60 years? Celebrate the Year of the Horse at Wing Luke Museum’s annual Lunar New Year Family Fair! Learn about Lunar New Year celebrations and join us for a full afternoon of family-friendly activities.
Historically, the Lunar New Year honors our ancestors, removes bad energy, and welcomes good fortune. As a major cultural anchor for a wide array of the region’s Asian American communities, Seattle’s Chinatown-International District is an ideal setting for this celebration of unity and cultural tradition.
Day-of Schedule
🎇 10 AM to 11 AM — Lion Dance Blessing (Free to the Public) — Watch Mak Fai Kung Fu Dragon & Lion Dance Association perform at the front entrance on King Street. Additional speaking programs from local leaders to follow.
🎇 11 AM to 3 PM — Lunar New Year Family Fair (Paid Admission Required) — Museum doors will open at 11 AM. Group games will be available to learn and play in the Community Hall. Explore our exhibits, participate in craft activities, receive a special take-home stamp passport, or try our Zodiac Animal scavenger hunt with the kids (recommended for eight-year-olds or younger). See more details on our fair page!
🎇 3 PM to 5 PM — All Museum galleries and the Marketplace will remain open till close at 5 PM. Be sure to see our newest KidPlace exhibit refresh, New Years All Year Round!

Day of Remembrance
2026-02-05 13:00 - 16:30 | Seattle University Piggot Hall, 901 12th Avenue, Seattle, 98122
Sunday, February 15, 2026. No Choice but to Resist: Program of Remembrance of the signing of E.O. 9066 on February 19, 1942 that allowed the forced removal of all Japanese from the West Coast during WWII. We will premier a documentary on the story of the Minidoka Pilgrimage entitled “To Heal, to Hold, and to Fight” and the short film honoring those murdered in camp at the hands of guards “Dust: Poems for the Vanished” by local artist Glenn Mitsuri and Brandon Shimoda, and the story of the jail at Tule Lake Concentration Camp “Defiant to the Last: Resistance at Tule Lake” by filmmaker Emoiko Omori. A brief panel discussion with the filmmakers will follow the showing. The event is FREE
Included in Pigott Atrium is an exhibit from the School of Law on local hero Gordon Hirabayashi. Exhibit and Doors open at Noon. Program begins at 1:00pm with a taiko performance featuring Seattle University’s own Hidaka Taiko and guests Inochi Taiko and Tobe Daiko. The screenings will follow at 2:15pm.

Day of Remembrance
2026-02-15 13:00 - 16:30 | Seattle University Piggot Hall, 901 12th Avenue, Seattle, 98122
Sunday, February 15, 2026. Please join us for our annual Day of Remembrance event this coming Sunday, February 15th at Seattle University.
What: Join Seattle University and the Minidoka Pilgrimage Planning Committee for a Day of Remembrance event featuring taiko performances and the screening of three outstanding short films
Featuring:
• Hidaka Taiko, Inochi Taiko and Tobe Daiko
• The Screening of Three Outstanding Films
• A panel with filmmakers Glenn Mitsui, Emiko Omori and Barbara Takei moderated by Erin Shigaki
Admission: FREE (The program is a benefit for the 2026 Minidoka Pilgrimage)
While a ticket is not required, it would greatly help event organizers if you would please fill-out a quick and easy registration form so we can keep track of admission numbers:
Registration Link: EO 9066 Japanese American Day of Remembrance – Seattle University
Parking information: https://tinyurl.com/2026DOR
Special Appreciation: Seattle University for its on-going generous support of the Minidoka Pilgrimage, the Japanese American Community and its many diverse and valued community members.
Questions: information@minidokapilgrimage.org

Day of Remembrance Work Party
2026-02-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Bainbridge Island Japanese Exclusion Memorial, 4195 Eagle Harbor Dr NE, Bainbridge Island, 98110
Thursday, February 19, 2026. On the Day of Remembrance, we gather for a day of service—to clean, trim, weed, and beautify the Exclusion Memorial. All ages are welcome. Please wear boots and your favorite work gloves. Gardening tools, wheelbarrows, buckets, and extra gloves will be provided by our generous partners at the Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District. Rain or shine, it’s a lot of fun.
On the Day of Remembrance, we gather for a day of service—to clean, trim, weed, and beautify the Exclusion Memorial. All ages are welcome. Please wear boots and your favorite work gloves. Gardening tools, wheelbarrows, buckets, and extra gloves will be provided by our generous partners at the Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District. Rain or shine, it’s a lot of fun.
February 19, 1942, was the day President Franklin D. Roosevelt issued Executive Order 9066, setting in motion the mobilization of the U.S. military to round up and forcibly remove Japanese Americans from their West Coast homes to hastily constructed incarceration camps inland. While many organizations observe this day with solemn speeches and heavy hearts, on Bainbridge Island, we do things differently.
Please note: the Memorial parking lot at Pritchard Park is closed. Alternate parking is available at the bus turnaround on Taylor Avenue. The temporary entrance during construction is a short walk from there, near the head of the Memorial Wall. Please consider carpooling with a friend.

Day of Remembrance
2026-02-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Washington State Fair Expo Hall, 110 9th Avenue SW, Puyallup, 98371
Saturday, February 21, 2026. This year’s program will include five sessions, featuring a fireside chat with survivors Hana Konishi and Paul Tomita; a reading by author Tamiko Nimura from her new book, A Place for What We Lose: A Daughter’s Return To Tule Lake; a display of paintings by artist Chris Hopkins that explore the incarceration experience; and updates from Tsuru for Solidarity by Stan Shikuma and his team on actions needed to support immigrant and refugee communities currently being targeted; guests will also be able to visit the Remembrance Gallery, led by Gallery docents.
Time – Doors open at 9:45am, Program Starts at 10:00am and ends around 12:00pm.
Parking – Free parking is available in the Washington State Fair’s Gold Parking Lot, 350 7th Ave SE, Puyallup
Free admission is at the Gold Gate, corner of S. Meridian & 9th Ave SW. Volunteers will guide you from the Gold parking lot through the Gold Gate entrance into the Expo Hall.
The Day of Remembrance is a way to acknowledge and honor the over 125,000 people of Japanese descent who were incarcerated during World War II.

Community Planting Event
2026-02-28 10:00 - 12:30 | SCORE Facility, 20817 17th Avenue S, Des Moines, 98198
Saturday, February 28, 2026. Join Us for a Community Planting Event
You’re invited! Join the Port of Seattle, its partners, and community members as we maintain existing restoration sites, including removing invasives and planting native trees and shrubs to restore our urban forests from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2026.
Participants will install 100 plants and use hand tools to remove blackberry, ivy and St. John’s Wort at an existing community stewardship site previously restored by community members. Supplemental planting and invasive species removal will ensure this area grows into a resilient, restored native forest.
The Port will provide snacks, hot drinks, gloves, and tools. Clothes, shoes, and rain gear appropriate for working outdoors are recommended. This event is family friendly and no experience is necessary.
DATE: Saturday, February 28, 2026
TIME: 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
PLACE: SCORE Facility, 20817 17th Avenue S, Des Moines, WA 98198
PARKING: Follow signs along 200th St. South and 17th Avenue South for the Port of Seattle Community Stewardship Event. Please drive to the end of 17th Avenue to park in the SCORE guest parking lot.

Ukulele Start-Up
2026-03-03 18:30 - 2026-03-24 19:30 | Kirkland Performance Center, 636 7th Avenue, Kirkland, 98033
Tuesdays, March 3-24, 2026. The cheerful ukulele may be just what we need during these disruptive times, so let’s dig in! This class for total beginners will balance demonstration with opportunities for students to play, starting from easy chords used in familiar songs and building technique from there. Along the way we’ll address how to hold it, tune it, strum it, and what you can do to practice on your own. Successive weeks will balance incorporating new skills with returning to familiar examples. No previous experience necessary. Students should have their own instrument to use during class.
About the Instructor: Wes Weddell
For the past 25 years, Wes Weddell has worked multiple shifts in the engine room of Seattle’s roots music scene, keeping his hand in abundant projects as frontman, sideman, writer, teacher, and community-builder. In 2010, Weddell began working with The Bushwick Book Club Seattle, an expanding non-profit collective of songwriters who each compose new music inspired by literature to share in monthly showcases focused around specific books. He is now the organization’s Associate Director. Along the way he has continued to teach a variety of instruments and styles across generations, helping hundreds find the joy of playing and singing with others.
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Cost Information:
Four week class: $140 + tax
Note: The total price listed includes a 10.4% sales tax.

Japanese Video Game Culture
2026-03-04 16:30 - 18:30 | UW Kane Hall, 4069 Spokane Lane NE, Seattle, 98105
Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Japan’s video game and digital entertainment industries have shaped global popular culture for decades—defining genres, aesthetics, storytelling, and business models that resonate far beyond Japan. From iconic franchises to innovative approaches to branding and localization, Japanese creators and companies continue to influence how games are developed, marketed, and experienced worldwide.
Japan Currents 2026: Japanese Video Game Culture Crossing the Pacific brings together industry leaders, creators, and scholars to explore how Japanese video game culture travels across borders and adapts to the U.S. market. Through talks and discussion, the program will examine creative philosophies, business strategies, and the cultural exchange that has made Japanese games a global force.
Co-hosted with the University of Washington Center for Japanese Studies and the Foster School of Business Global Business Center, this seminar will be held at the University of Washington’s Kane Hall. Thanks to generous support from a grant from the National Association of Japan–America Societies, Inc., with support from the Embassy of Japan in Washington, D.C., the seminar portion of this event is free and open to the public. Advance registration is required for security purposes.
Following the seminar, a post-seminar networking reception will be held in the Walker-Ames Room, offering attendees the opportunity to continue the conversation with speakers, panelists, faculty, and fellow professionals from the gaming, technology, creative, and academic communities in an informal setting.
University of Washington – Kane Hall (4069 Spokane Lane NE, Seattle)
Seminar: 4:30–6:30 PM (Kane 210) | Reception: 7:00–8:30 PM (Walker Ames)
Seminar is free for all – Registration Required
Post-Seminar Networking Reception Tickets are: $25 for members, $40 for non-members, $10 for member students and $15 for non-member students

Lunar New Year
2026-03-07 11:00 - 17:00
Saturday, March 7, 2026. The Lunar New Year Celebration highlights each zodiac animal and celebrates the year’s symbolism in the historic Chinatown-International District (Chinatown-ID). Since its inception in 1998, our Lunar New Year Celebration has become one of the largest events of its kind in the region, showcasing the diversity, richness, and cultural heritage of the Asian American community.
The celebration features traditional dragon and lion dances, martial arts demonstrations, and other cultural performances. Visitors can also participate in our Annual Food Walk, sampling dishes from local businesses. With a variety of family-friendly activities, arts and crafts vendors, and cultural exhibits, the event offers something for everyone to enjoy!
Vendor booths will line up along S King St., dance performances and music will take place throughout the main stage at Hing Hay Park, foodies will have the opportunity to explore 40+ food walk destinations — you can truly feel the atmosphere of this cultural intersection. We look forward to celebrating with you soon!

Sukiyaki!
2026-03-07 13:00 - 18:00 | Blaine Memorial United Methodist Church, 3001 24th Ave South, Seattle, 98144-5930
Saturday, March 7, 2026. Blaine Memorial’s Sukiyaki Benefit Fundraiser is back! Mark your calendars and SAVE THE DATE for SATURDAY, MARCH 7, 2026! Our beneficiary will support The Pacific Northwest Conference’s Disaster Fund. Friends, the ordering site is now available! Pre-order your favorite goodies, today!
Don’t forget on the day of, to drop by our Bakery to purchase:
Traditional Ohagi
Tsukemono
Many wonderful baked goodies.

MOMOTARO!
2026-03-21 11:00 - 2026-03-28 13:30 | McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer Street, Seattle, 98109
Saturday, March 21 and 28, 2026. Jessica Lang and Kanji Segawa have adapted the popular Japanese folk story of Momotaro (Peach Boy) into an exciting new ballet. Follow the adventures of Momotaro as he befriends animals, fights ogres, and seeks his fortune. This hour-long addition to PNB’s family matinee series, danced by PNB School students, is the perfect introduction to ballet for young audiences. Order tickets https://order.pnb.org/events?k=family
The School of TAIKO youth performers will take the stage with powerful Taiko pieces composed by Ringtaro Tateishi.
Join us on March 28 from 11:30 – 3:30 for Momotaro Community Day! This free, family-friendly event will celebrate Japanese and Japanese American art, dance, and culture.

Sakura Matsuri
2026-04-04 11:00 - 16:00 | Kobe Terrace, 650 South Main Street, Seattle, 98104
Saturday, April 4, 2026. 🌸Join us in Japantown for SAKURA MATSURI! More than 12 small businesses and pop ups in Japantown will be offering Sakura specials, food, springtime items, sales, music, giveaways, crafts, and more!
Come enjoy hanami 花見 or ‘flower viewing’ at Kobe Terrace Park, a tradition in Japan to celebrate the coming of spring with picnics and gatherings below the blooming trees.

Seattle Cherry Blossom Festival
2026-04-10 10:00 - 2026-04-12 17:00 | Seattle Center Armory Food & Event Hall, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, 98109
April 10 to 12, 2026. Join us for the 51st Annual Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival at Seattle Center. This free, weekend-long celebration of Japanese and Japanese American culture features traditional performances, authentic food, cultural demonstrations and workshops.
Attractions include taiko, martial arts, tea ceremony, music, food, arts and crafts, sake, games, ikebana.

Defining Courage
2026-04-11 18:00 - 20:00 | UW Meany Hall, 4040 George Washington Lane Northeast, Seattle, 98195
Saturday, April 11, 2026. For the first time in the Pacific Northwest, Defining Courage comes to Seattle with new stories of local Nisei veterans, brought to life with all-original music by Grammy-winner Daniel Ho, the RAISE Choir, and Harold Payne.
Defining Courage is a story about what it means to be an American. The show is a journey into the legacy of the Nisei Soldier, Americans of Japanese ancestry who served in the segregated military units of the 100th IB, 442nd RCT, MIS, and 522nd FAB. Considered among the greatest fighting units in American military history, their extraordinary stories have rarely been heard.
Narrated by Emmy-winning ABC7-Los Angeles News Anchor and Filmmaker David Ono along with musicians and vocalists curated by Music Director Chris Wade, we immerse you into the profound and inspiring world of these heroes who fought prejudice at home and the enemy abroad.
SEE, HEAR, and EXPERIENCE their incredible heroics through this piece of innovative storytelling. Far from a history lesson, it is a testament to inner strength, one that inspires us in our search for courage in today’s world.

Japan Tour 2026
2026-04-13 - 2026-04-27
April 13-27, 2026. Japan Tour presented by North American Post. Join an unforgettable group tour of Japan – a perfect blend of tradition, culture, & adventure. Great for first timers and seasoned explorers.

Karaoke Meet Up
2026-04-16 18:00 - 2026-09-17 20:00 | JCCCW, 1414 South Weller Street, Seattle, 98144
Every third Thursday, April to September 2026. Welcome all Kenjinkai clubs, Nikkei communities, organizations and more.
Free admission for those who have active memberships in Kenjinkai clubs, Nikkei org or company employees.
Donations and potluck dinner welcome.

Aha Mele Hawaiian Festival
2026-04-18 11:00 - 19:00 | Tacoma Community College Athletic Center, 6501 S 19th Street, Tacoma, 98466
Saturday, April 18, 2026. Join the Mokuʻāina a Wakenikona Hawaiian Civic Club for ʻAha Mele, a joyful celebration of Hawaiian culture and community, April 18th at the Athletic Center at Tacoma Community College.
Enjoy live Hawaiian music, hula, ʻono Hawaiian food, Hawaiian-owned vendors, and hands-on cultural workshops. ʻAha Mele is a time to celebrate, connect, and share aloha with the community.
TICKETS NOW ON SALE:
Ticket Pricing:
General Admission: $10 ($15 at door)
Kupuna: $5 ($10 at door)
Keiki: $5 ($10 at door)
We look forward to welcoming you—e komo mai!

Seattle King County Clinic
2026-04-23 08:00 - 2026-04-26 17:00 | Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St, Seattle, 98109
April 23-26, 2026. A project of Seattle Center and Seattle Center Foundation, Seattle/King County Clinic brings together healthcare organizations, civic agencies, nonprofits, businesses, and thousands of volunteers to produce the largest community-driven free health clinic of its kind in the United States.
Consider volunteering for this event. There are a wide range of positions and times. This clinic offers free medical, dental and vision care for those in need.

Asian American Pacific Islander Community Days
2026-05-01 09:30 - 2026-05-31 18:00 | Seattle Aquarium, 1483 Alaskan Way, Pier 59, Seattle, 98101
May 2026. Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month at the Seattle Aquarium! Join us for special programming, a scavenger hunt and more throughout May.
We’ll have special talks on Wednesdays and Sundays related to AAPI communities and marine conservation. Come chat with an Aquarium scientist and learn more about careers in science at the Discovery Lab every Sunday in May from 11:30am–1:30pm.
Be sure to bring your little ones too! We’ll have special activities to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month during Toddler Time on May 17 and 18. Check out the Toddler Time page for more details.
This event is open to all members of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities and those eager to learn more.

Kodomo no Hi
2026-05-03 11:00 - 17:00 | JCCCW, 1414 South Weller Street, Seattle, 98144
Sunday, May 3, 2026. Guests will have the opportunity to try games like yo-yo fishing, crafts, or can make creations with Japanese LaQ blocks. There will be a range of demonstrations from koto (Japanese harp) by Koto no WA to tea ceremony by East-West Chanoyu Center to taiko by Kaze Daiko. We’ll once again be joined by Tokara Confectionery and Kozmo Kitchen, who will have food available for purchase during the event (while supplies last).
All are welcome at this free event! We hope you will join us and try hands-on activities, enjoy Japanese food and entertainment, and maybe even win some prizes during this fun-filled Children’s Day!

Hiromi's Sonic Wonder
2026-05-05 19:30 - 21:30 | Moore Theatre, 1932 2nd Avenue Seattle, Seattle, 98101
Tuesday, May 5, 2026. Check your expectations at the door for this night of wildly adventurous music from Hiromi and Sonicwonder. Mixing influences that range from Chick Corea to Frank Zappa and funk fusion, Hiromi follows her own musical path, attracting fans of all ages with compositions that run the gamut from Mozart to metal and beyond. Sonicwonder audiences have been known to stand and whoop in wonder at the intricate, catchy and powerful sound that pours out of this eclectic electric quartet. “I just want to keep exploring and trying new things,” Hiromi says, vowing that her best performance will be her next one.
One of jazz piano’s most brazenly virtuosic players.” The New York TimesC

Walk for Rice
2026-05-16 09:00 - 12:00 | Seward Park, 5900 Lake Washington Blvd. South, Seattle, 98108
Saturday, May 16, 2026. Walk for Rice brings communities together to support the ACRS Food Bank in Seattle’s Chinatown-International District and raise awareness about food insecurity in Asian and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander communities. Each year, the food bank distributes nearly one million pounds of food, including culturally familiar staples like rice, tofu, and fresh produce, to about 5,000 families and people across King County.
Created in 1990 by community advocates Sam Mitsui and Herb and Bertha Tsuchiya, Walk for Rice has grown from 45 walkers to hundreds of participants and has raised over $4 million to fight hunger across our region.
Join us on Saturday, May 16, 2026 at Seward Park during Asian and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month for the community celebration and walk, and help ensure everyone has access to the foods that feel like home.

Vashon Remembers the Day of Exile
2026-05-16 11:00 - 15:00 | Ober Park, 17130 Vashon Hwy SW #1608,, Vashon Island, 98070
Saturday, May 16, 2026. Each year, Vashon Island gathers to remember a profound and painful chapter in its history—the forced removal of Japanese Americans during World War II.
On May 16, 1942, members of Vashon’s Japanese American community were ordered to leave their homes, farms, and businesses under Executive Order 9066. Families were given only days to prepare before being escorted to the ferry dock and sent to incarceration camps. This day became known as the Day of Exile.
Vashon Remembers the Day of Exile is a community event dedicated to honoring those who were displaced and recognizing the lasting impact of this injustice. It is also a time to reflect on civil liberties, resilience, and the importance of standing against discrimination in all its forms.
The event typically includes:
A commemorative gathering at the historic ferry dock
Stories and reflections from community members and descendants
Historical context and educational presentations
Cultural performances and moments of remembrance
This gathering serves not only as a tribute to those who endured exile, but also as a reminder of the responsibility we share to uphold justice, inclusion, and human dignity.

9th Annual South Sound Day of Remembrance
2026-05-21 16:00 - 20:00 | Washington State History Museum, 1911 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, 98402
Saturday, May 21, 2026. Join us for an evening of remembrance marking the 84th anniversary of the forced removal of Japanese Americans from South Puget Sound in May 1942.
Now in its 9th year, the event, curated by Tamiko Nimura, features a book fair, author chats, and a panel discussion exploring Japanese American stories. This event will also include a procession from the Washington State History Museum to Union Station.
Tamiko Nimura is an Asian American creative nonfiction writer and public historian living in Tacoma, Washington. She writes from an interdisciplinary space at the intersection of her love of literature, grounding in American ethnic studies, inherited wisdom from teachers and activists, and storytelling through history. Her forthcoming memoir is titled A PLACE FOR WHAT WE LOSE: A DAUGHTER’S RETURN TO TULE LAKE (University of Washington Press).
About the “We the People Lecture Series”
Join us for the “We the People Lecture Series” every Third Thursday, with free admission to the Washington State History Museum. Explore what it means to be a Washingtonian and connect with our nation’s founding values. Each event offers fresh perspectives on Washington’s story, featuring talks, demonstrations, trivia, and performances in partnership with local cultural groups and organizations.
This series is part of Washington’s 250th anniversary celebration of the Declaration of Independence. All are welcome to learn, connect, and have fun! Learn more and get involved at: www.America250WA.org.

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet
2026-05-24 14:00 - 15:30 | Langston Hughes Performaing Arts Institute, 104 17th Avenue South, Seattle, 98144
Sunday, May 24, 2026. Celebrate a special preview of the new musical adaptation of the best selling novel, “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet”. This exclusive event features the first act, along with bonus songs–an early sneak peak, followed by an intimate conversation with the producers, Lainie Sakakura and Paul Fujimoto.
Sundays performance will include refreshments after the show! Mingle with the producers, cast members, musicians and author Jamie Ford.
All profits from the show will be donated to Seattle’s Nikkei community.
