Japanese culture enthusiasts, anime fans and food lovers will have a chance to experience Japan in Southern California as the OC Japan Fair returns to Costa Mesa from October 16 to 18, 2026.
The 19th edition of the festival will bring together Japanese cuisine, anime merchandise, cosplay, live entertainment and traditional cultural activities at the OC Fair & Event Center. Organisers are also expanding the event’s pop-culture offerings with a dedicated Japan Pop Culture Zone featuring popular anime titles.
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Three Days of Japanese Culture and Entertainment
The three-day event aims to introduce visitors to different aspects of Japanese culture, from traditional arts and performances to contemporary entertainment.
Festival highlights include:
● Live tuna-cutting demonstrations
● Anime merchandise and collectible vendors
● Cosplay shows and competitions
● Japanese music and idol performances
● Traditional Japanese instruments and dance
● Kimono-related experiences
● Cultural workshops and traditional games
The combination of modern Japanese pop culture and traditional experiences makes the fair appealing to families, anime enthusiasts and visitors interested in Japanese heritage.
Live Tuna-Cutting Shows Take Centre Stage
One of the festival’s most distinctive attractions is its live tuna-cutting demonstration, where visitors can watch a skilled chef prepare a large tuna using traditional techniques.
The demonstrations are scheduled for Saturday, October 17, and Sunday, October 18. The showcase highlights the precision and craftsmanship associated with Japanese seafood preparation and offers visitors a closer look at the culinary traditions behind Japanese cuisine.
Anime Fans Can Explore a New Pop Culture Zone
Anime and Japanese pop culture will have a bigger presence at this year’s fair through a dedicated Japan Pop Culture Zone.
The area will feature internationally popular series, including DAN DA DAN and BLUE LOCK. Visitors can also browse vendors selling anime-themed merchandise, collectibles, crafts and other Japanese-inspired products.
Cosplay activities and live idol performances will add to the atmosphere, giving fans opportunities to celebrate their favourite characters and connect with other enthusiasts.
More Than 60 Japanese Food Options
Food is expected to be another major attraction, with more than 60 Japanese food offerings highlighted by the organisers.
Visitors can look forward to festival favourites such as:
● Ramen
● Takoyaki
● Okonomiyaki
● Yakisoba
● Yakitori
● Taiyaki
● Tonkatsu sandwiches
● Shaved ice
These dishes offer visitors an opportunity to explore the variety of Japanese street food and casual dining traditions without travelling to Japan.
Traditional Performances Meet Modern Japanese Pop Culture
Alongside anime and food, the festival will showcase traditional Japanese arts and entertainment.
Visitors can experience taiko drumming, koto music, traditional dance, calligraphy, flower arranging, tea ceremony and rakugo storytelling. The programme also includes live artists, comedians and idol performances.
The event’s mix of heritage and contemporary culture reflects the broad appeal of Japanese entertainment, which continues to attract audiences internationally.
Event Details: Dates, Location and Tickets
● Dates: October 16–18, 2026
● Friday hours: 4 p.m.–10 p.m.
● Saturday hours: Noon–10 p.m.
● Sunday hours: 11 a.m.–7 p.m.
● Venue: OC Fair & Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, California
● General admission: Listed at $17.85 for purchases from October 16 onward
● Free admission: Children aged six and under and adults over 65
● Parking: $15
Details are subject to change. Visitors should check theofficial OC Japan Fair website for the latest ticket prices and event information.
1. Celebrates Japanese Heritage
The festival introduces visitors to Japanese food, performing arts, crafts and customs.
Merchandise vendors, cosplay and pop-culture programming create opportunities for fans to share their interests.
Visitors can explore Japanese traditions and contemporary entertainment in one event.
4. Brings Japanese Cuisine to California
The wide selection of festival food gives attendees an accessible way to discover different Japanese dishes.
The OC Japan Fair returns to Costa Mesa for three days of Japanese food, anime, cosplay, traditional arts and live entertainment from October 16 to 18, 2026. With its tuna-cutting demonstrations, expanded anime programming and diverse culinary offerings, the festival promises a lively celebration of Japan’s cultural heritage and modern pop culture in Southern California.
