If you’re looking for a taste of Japan without leaving Southern California, the OC Japan Fair is bringing three days of food, entertainment, shopping, and cultural experiences to the OC Fair & Event Center this October.
The 19th OC Japan Fair takes place from October 16–18, 2026. The fair invites visitors to experience Japanese culture through traditional performances, hands-on workshops, anime merchandise, festival food, and more.
What to do at the OC Japan Fair
The festival offers a packed lineup of experiences celebrating different aspects of Japanese culture. Some of the highlights include:
- Cosplay Show: Dress up as your favorite anime character and join the annual cosplay celebration.
- Tuna Cutting Show: Watch an impressive live tuna-cutting demonstration showcasing traditional Japanese culinary skills.
- Live Performances: Catch performances featuring traditional Japanese instruments, J-POP music, artists, and comedians.
- Kimono Models: Meet kimono models and learn more about the traditional garments.
- Shodo Workshops: Try your hand at Japanese calligraphy during a traditional crafts workshop.
- Traditional Games: Take part in Japanese-inspired games suitable for the whole family.
- Anime Merchandise: Browse vendors selling anime goods and Japanese-inspired products.
- Traditional Crafts: Explore hands-on experiences centered around Japanese traditions.
Eat your way through Japan
Of course, no Japanese festival would be complete without plenty of food. The OC Japan Fair brings together vendors from Japan and across the U.S. This gives visitors the chance to sample a wide variety of Japanese dishes and festival favorites.
Expect plenty of opportunities to discover new flavors while exploring the fair, with vendors showcasing Japanese food culture and the flavors of Japan’s famous umami.
Ticket information
Tickets are currently $17.85 when purchased after October 16 at midnight. Children 6 and under and adults over 65 are free. Get tickets to the OC Japan Fair here.
OC Japan Fair 2026
📍 Where: OC Fair & Event Center (88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa, CA 92626)
📅 When: October 16–18, 2026
