D.C. Japanese Street Festival returns in parade-filled weekend
Why it matters: The Pennsylvania Avenue event is the biggest celebration of Japanese culture in the U.S.
This year, there are more food offerings promised than ever before, including a timed-ticket "mini sake festival" to sample seven types of sake. There will be ramen, sushi and traditional desserts like mochi.
Sumo wrestlers Ichi and Hiroki will have an exhibition bout on Sunday.
Japanese progressive metal band Ulma Sound Junction will perform both days.
The festival has cultural exhibits and artisan crafts. Family-friendly activities include Sakura tree drawings, calligraphy and origami.
Tickets are listed as $15 for a standard one-day pass if purchased through Friday, and there are other tickets for special events.
Other events this weekend:
🎉 The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade rolls down Constitution Avenue on Saturday with its floats and marching bands. It begins at 10am and seated tix start at $25.
🍻 The D.C. Beer Fest returns to Nats Park on Saturday from noon to 3pm and 5-8pm. General admission tickets are $55 for unlimited samples from over 80 breweries.
🎆 The D.C. Emancipation Day 20th Anniversary Celebration takes place on Sunday, including a parade starting at 2pm at Pennsylvania Avenue and 10th Street NW, and ending at Freedom Plaza.
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