The first-ever Japan Parade in New York City will be held this year with actor, author, civil rights activist, and Influencer George Takei as the Parade’s inaugural Grand Marshall. Sandra Endo, news correspondent on KTVV Los Angeles, Fox 11 News, and feature reporter for Good Day LA, will serve as Emcee of the parade.

The Japan Parade is affiliated with Japan Day, an annual event that has taken place in Central Park since 2007. This year also marks the 150th anniversary of two important milestones for Japan-United States relations: the Japanese mission to the United States, led by Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Iwakura Tomomi, as well as the United States’ introduction of baseball to Japan.

The Japan Day Parade, will begin at 1pm on West 81st Street traveling south to West 68th street on Central Park West. The Japan Parade will feature live performances by the cast of “Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon” The Super Live, Young People’s Chorus of New York City, Cobu, Soh Daiko, Japanese Folk Dance of NY, 10tecomai, Tate Haroryu, International Karate Organization Kyokushin- kaikan, Anime NYC, and others.

The Japan Street Fair, happening 1-4:30pm, will take place on 69th street between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue, where you will be able to enjoy Japanese cuisine and activities.