The Gateway – Yokohama Festival

EVENT:

The Gateway

date:

Saturday, November 14, 2026

TIME:

11:00AM–6:00PM

LOCATION:

Balboa Park Recital Hall
Balboa Park

Step inside and experience another side of the Yokohama Festival.

The Gateway transforms the Recital Hall into a lively global food and marketplace experience where food, culture, creativity and community come together. With Japan at its heart, The Gateway brings together flavors, makers, organizations and experiences reflecting San Diego’s international community and the friendships that connect us across the Pacific.

Come hungry, explore something new and discover the people and cultures that make our region unique.

The Gateway is more than a marketplace. It’s a place to experience new flavors, discover local businesses and organizations, enjoy music and culture, and make connections throughout the afternoon.

FOOD
Enjoy Japanese favorites alongside food and flavors from San Diego’s international community.
VENDORS
Browse merchants, makers, artists and unique goods from local businesses and community partners.
CULTURE
Explore Japanese culture and international community exhibits, including the return of the House of Japan.
LIVE PERFORMANCES & DEMONSTRATIONS
Experience the Gateway Stage featuring Japanese cultural arts, live demonstrations, music, J-Pop, and interactive activities throughout the afternoon.
CONNECT
Meet community organizations and discover opportunities in culture, education, travel, business and international exchange.

MORE THAN A MARKETPLACE

The Gateway represents what happens when cultures meet and communities connect. It’s a place to share food, exchange ideas, support local businesses and organizations, and experience the international friendships at the heart of the Yokohama Festival.

Come for the food. Stay for the experience. Leave with a new connection.

GATEWAY STAGE SCHEDULE

Saturday, November 14 | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Discover a lively mix of cultural performances, live demonstrations, and interactive experiences throughout the day. From traditional Japanese arts to contemporary entertainment, the Gateway Stage celebrates creativity, culture, and community through engaging experiences for all ages.

1:30PMKamishibai

Experience the Japanese art of storytelling with Walter Ritter of Write Out Loud, bringing traditional kamishibai picture theater to life through colorful illustrations and engaging narration.

2:30 PMIkebana Demonstration

Discover the beauty and harmony of ikebana, the traditional Japanese art of flower arranging, through a live demonstration by Ikebana International San Diego Chapter #119

3:30 PMBrushforma

Experience the beauty of Japanese calligraphy with San Diego-based artist Assaa of BrushForma, whose expressive brushwork brings together traditional artistry, mindfulness, and contemporary design.

4:30 PMDollie!

Enjoy the energy and excitement of Japanese pop idol culture as Dollie! brings music, dance, and vibrant J-pop entertainment to the festival.

5:30 PMSan Diego Kendo Bu

Discover the discipline, precision, and spirit of kendo, the traditional Japanese martial art of swordsmanship, through an exciting live demonstration.