EVENT:
Honu Sumo Showdown:
San Diego vs. Orange County
date:
November 14, 2026
TIME:
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
LOCATION:
Yokohama Festival
Main Stage
Balboa Park
HONU SUMO SHOWDOWN
San Diego vs. Orange County | Yokohama Festival 2026
Get ready for a showdown of strength, skill, and tradition as Honu Sumo brings the excitement of Japanese sumo wrestling to the Yokohama Festival!
Watch competitors from San Diego and Orange County face off in the ring as part of our celebration of 70 years of friendship between San Diego and Yokohama.
Whether you’re a longtime sumo fan or experiencing the sport for the first time, this is your chance to witness the power, technique, and sportsmanship of one of Japan’s most iconic traditions.
EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF SUMO
Sumo is more than a contest of strength. Rooted in centuries of Japanese tradition, it is a sport that combines balance, strategy, discipline, and respect.
The Honu Sumo Showdown brings this tradition to life with exciting matches featuring local athletes representing San Diego and Orange County.
Join us ringside as competitors test their skills and introduce audiences to the growing world of amateur sumo in Southern California.
CELEBRATING JAPANESE CULTURE THROUGH SPORT.
Since establishing their sister-city relationship in 1956, San Diego and Yokohama have built connections spanning generations through education, culture, business, government and people-to-people exchange.
70th Anniversary Reception celebrates that history while looking toward what comes next.
Throughout the evening, guests will encounter stories and experiences representing the relationship between our cities, from the people who helped build it to the students, artists, educators, organizations and community leaders carrying it forward today.
A brief anniversary program will bring everyone together for special welcomes, recognitions and a toast to 70 years of friendship before the celebration continues.
