Date: August 7-9, 2009
Cost: $4
Organizer: Midwest Buddhist Temple
What to expect: Japanese arts and entertainment dominate this fest, featuring demonstrations on everything from pottery making and hula dancing to martial arts and Taiko drumming. There will also be a ton of authentic cuisine, including udon, edamame and kintoki (shaved ice flavored with sweet crushed beans).
Why to go: The Waza. Four master crafts-persons came from Tokyo exclusively for this event; all you have to do is head to their outdoor booths daily to see 300 years of Edo craft come alive. Also, Yoko Noge and Jazz Me Blues makes an appearance at 8 p.m. on Saturday.
Centerstage Reviewer: Ben Rubenstein