Vendors at the inaugural Brisbane event served up ramen, sushi, yakitori, karaage, gyoza, takoyaki and various traditional desserts, as well as specialised festival-style dishes not commonly found outside large events. Photo: Supplied.
Loosen your belt buckles, ready your chopsticks and follow the lantern light down to the shores of Lake Burley Griffin for an authentic Japanese street festival.
Popular Brisbane-born Japan StrEAT Party will tour nationally for the first time this year, with Canberra its first stop.
The festival will take place from 27 to 29 March at Patrick White Lawns.
The family-friendly event aims to recreate the lively atmosphere of Japanese street festivals – or “matsuri” – by combining authentic food, drinks, music, dance, and other cultural experiences, all enjoyed outdoors under the glow of traditional Japanese lanterns.
Launched last year at Brisbane Showgrounds, the event has seen great enthusiasm from vendors and foodies alike, prompting its immediate expansion into other major cities, including Sydney, Melbourne and Perth.
If you wear your stretchy pants, there’s nothing else you need to know! Image: Supplied.
When planning the festival’s expansion, festival director Katsuhiro Muramatsu said Canberra was a natural choice due to its growing food scene and diverse community.
“Following the strong response from both the public and participating vendors, we decided to expand the event nationally so more cities across Australia can experience this style of Japanese festival,” he said.
“We selected locations with vibrant food cultures and strong public event communities.”
Grab some food, grab some drinks, grab some culture! Photo: Instagram.
Visitors can expect to find popular dishes like sushi, ramen, Japanese fried chicken, takoyaki and gyoza – as well as specialised festival-style foods rarely available outside large events.
“The beverage experience is also a major highlight,” said Mr Muramatsu.
Suntory beer and premium Japanese sake will give visitors the opportunity to pair authentic street food with traditional beverages for the full festival experience.
While Canberra foodies are already marking their calendars, organisers say the event also plays an important role in connecting and supporting communities.
“The event creates opportunities for local businesses, food vendors and cultural groups to connect with a large audience,” said Mr Muramatsu.
“We also work with local suppliers, performers and community groups, helping support the local economy while creating a diverse festival experience.”
With free entry, the festival hopes to share Japan’s food culture widely with the Australian community.
“Our goal is for visitors to experience the excitement and energy of a Japanese street festival and discover the diversity of Japanese food culture. We hope attendees leave with great memories, new favourite dishes and a deeper appreciation of Japanese culture.”
Follow Japan StrEAT Party on Instagram.
Original Article published by Hayley Nicholls on Region Canberra.
