Taste of Japan

One of the largest Japanese festivals in Orange County, Taste of Japan–and its celebration of sake and Japanese beer, the Yokocho Fest–is heading back to the STC Gardenwalk June 16 and June 17 for two days of celebrating Japanese culture, food, anime, entertainment and more.

The family-friendly is free to join, and a fun event for all ages.

Bringing all your favorite Japanese cuisine, with more than 50 vendors there will be something for everyone, from traditional Japanese foods like ramen, takoyaki and yakitori, to various street foods, sweet treats, beer, spirits and more.

Pro tip for the grownups: Don’t miss your chance to check out the Yokocho Fest (open to 21-plus only)! This full beer and sake experience will give you a glimpse into Japan’s local drinking culture while you learn about the arts and culture of Japanese beer, sake and shochu. Japanese for “alleyway,” Yokocho is place where you can eat and drink like you’re in Japan. All Yokocho packages can be purchase in advance at www.tasteofjpn.com/yokochofest. The Yokocho Fest is supported by the Japanese American Media Assn. and will include premium sake tastings, sponsor goodies and more if you purchase in advance.

Pro tip for all ages: Pre-order your goodie bag for a great value. Each goodie bag includes great festival merchandise, as well as a free lunch ticket, Kukkia Japanese cookies, one Chargel Energy Drink, one Izumi Mountain Water, $5 off a Kuramoto Shaved Ice, one “Round 1” Play ticket and other goodies! Goodie bags can be preordered at www.tasteofjpn.com/goodiebag and will be picked up at the festival.

Come for the food, and stay for the entertainment, including Japanese drummers, martial artists, anime and other pop culture fun!

For more info, visit www.tasteofjpn.com.