NW26 Grand Parade | Rep. Mark Takano and Mural Artist Robert Vargas to Lead 84th Nisei Week Grand Parade in Little Tokyo | Sunday, August 16 Starting at 4PM
LITTLE TOKYO, Los Angeles – The Nisei Week Foundation proudly hosts its 84th summer event featuring free cultural activities for all ages. As part of its first weekend of events, the historic Nisei Week Japanese Festival Grand Parade will make its way through the streets of Little Tokyo on Sunday, August 16, starting at 4 p.m.
The parade will be led by the 2026 Grand Marshal, U.S. Rep. Mark Takano, and 2026 Parade Marshal acclaimed mural artist Robert Vargas. The parade procession will start at Central Avenue and head west on 2nd Street, turning north on San Pedro Street, turning east on 1st Street, then turning south and ending on Central Avenue.
The Nisei Week Grand Parade will feature traditional Japanese taiko drum performers, local community groups, high schools, elected officials and representatives, and the newly crowned 2026 Nisei Week queen and court. Additionally, celebrating nearly 20 years in the U.S., two large Nebuta floats – Tsugaru Straits, Yoshitsune Crossing the Sea, and Kintoki – will illuminate the Little Tokyo streets.
Rep. Takano and Vargas will be honored on Saturday, August 15, 6:30 p.m., during the Coronation and Awards Celebration. Additionally, Alan Miyatake will be honored with the Nisei Week President’s Award. The celebration takes place at the Los Angeles Theatre Center’s Tom Bradley Theatre, 514 S. Spring Street, Los Angeles. Tickets are $105 (orchestra) or $75 (balcony) per person. For ticket information visit the NiseiWeek.org website.