A free family-friendly Japanese festival is returning to Bermondsey, with karate demonstrations and other live performances as well as a food market.
Okinawa Day is a yearly celebration of the unique culture of Japan’s southernmost region – and it is coming to The Blue.
Okinawa is a cluster of islands in Japan that formed part of the Ryukyu Kingdom – which used to be its own country. For that reason, it has its own distinct traditions, taking influence from mainland Japan, Asia, and the US.
The family-friendly festival will introduce the audience to music, dances, and food from the islands to highlight its rich cultural diversity.
On Saturday, June 24 from 11 am – 5 pm, there will be live performances – from Ryukyu Classical Music and Okinawan Folk Songs to Eisa dance performances taught by Sonda Seinenkai (Sonda Youth Association) and karate demonstrations.
In addition, Okinawan cuisine, food, and crafts will be on sale from a variety of stalls.
The event is being organised by London Okinawa Sanshinkai.
London Okinawa Sanshinkai was formed in 1999 at SOAS (School of Oriental and African Studies) by academics specialising in Ryukyu Classical Music and Yaeyama Folk Songs studies. Since then, the group has been circulating Okinawan music, dances and culture through a variety of activities and performances not only in the UK but also in other European countries.
It will take place on Saturday 24 June from 11 am – 5 pm.
The Blue Market, Bermondsey, SE16 3UQ.
