The Okinawa Association of America (OAA) will host its annual Bazaar at the OAA Center Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 12 at the Center, 16500 S. Western Ave., Gardena. This is the only annual event in Southern California that celebrates Okinawan culture, bringing the community together for an afternoon of delicious food and soulful entertainment, its organizers said.
The Okinawa Association of America (OAA) will host its annual Bazaar at the OAA Center Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 12 at the Center, 16500 S. Western Ave., Gardena. This is the only annual event in Southern California that celebrates Okinawan culture, bringing the community together for an afternoon of delicious food and soulful entertainment, its organizers said.
Food booths include favorites such as fresh sātā andāgī (Okinawan dango), Okinawa soba, teriyaki combination plates, and spam musubi. In the mood for something new? Visitors can try ashitibichi (pig’s feet), rafute (braised pork belly), or taco rice (literally taco ingredients over rice; a popular fusion dish in Okinawa)! Take your lunch to-go or stay to enjoy our all-day entertainment program. Performances include traditional Okinawan music and dance, a Hawai’ian band, hula dancing, and martial arts demonstrations. The Bazaar has featured seasoned and up-and-coming artists alike with an emphasis on promoting those in the Okinawan community.
Visitors can try their luck at a $1 raffle to win two tickets to Disneyland. Those who want to start their holiday shopping early, can peruse a limited supply of Okinawan books, CDs, stickers, T-shirts, and tote bags. Kids will have fun playing games (prizes for everyone), making crafts, and learning a little bit about Okinawan culture in our Warabi Eisaa Workshop. They can make their own Okinawan drum, learn a short choreography, and perform in our entertainment program!
The OAA, a cultural non-profit organization formed by Okinawan immigrants over 100 years ago, also uses the Bazaar as their annual fundraiser for events, classes, and facility maintenance.
Parking available in nearby residential areas. It is recommended that you arrive early because many popular food and merchandise items tend to sell out quickly. More information: 310-532-1929 or oaamensore@gmail.com. Volunteer inquiries: oaavolunteers@gmail.com.
