Okinawan Craft FairMay 3, 2025 (Saturday)
9 a.m. - 2 p.m. OAA Center Parking Lot (Outdoors) 16500 S. Western Ave., Gardena, CA 90247 FREE ADMISSION! (PARKING INFORMATION) |
沖縄クラフト•フェア２０２５年５月３日 (土曜日)
午前９時〜午後２時 OAA センターの駐車場 (屋外) 16500 S. Western Ave., Gardena, CA 90247 無料入場！ (駐車場については FAQ をご覧ください) |
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Support local artists, crafters, and designers
ranging from professionals to hobbyists and youth creatives! |
ABOUTThe Okinawan Craft Fair was originally pitched by then high school student Melissa Oshiro Tran, who has volunteered at various OAA events throughout her youth. Though smaller than other craft fairs, this outdoor boutique stands out in that it will include Okinawa-themed items such as accessories, art prints, bags, buttons/pins, clothing, greeting cards, postcards, pottery, stickers, and more. The OAA hopes that this will be a big draw, as Okinawan items are rarely available at local stores, festivals, and other fairs. The organization also hopes that the event will provide an unintimidating, community-based platform for youth artists, independent creators, and hobbyists to showcase their talents. Yukino Yeganeh is a mother and crafts as a form of stress relief. “I enjoy meeting people who share the same love for Okinawa and fellow crafters who can highlight the Okinawan culture in such creative ways.” Yeganeh is one of many Okinawan community members who use fabric with traditional patterns in their handicrafts. Jody Lake, the founder of JootooClothing.com, drives from Temecula to participate in the craft fair almost every year. “[I love] all the great and wonderful people I’ve met over the years. I love being a part of this Okinawan community and being able to share in our culture and see what other [vendors] make as well.” Lake’s brand incorporates traditional Bingata motifs into modern-style shirts and hats. The first-ever “mini” craft fair was held in December 2018 with a humble six vendor tables. Due to its success, 2019 saw vendors and crowds nearly double. The OAA’s first large in-person event after the pandemic lockdown was the 2022 fair, which was scheduled for spring and held outdoors for safety purposes. Due to an overwhelmingly positive response, it was decided to keep the fair as an outdoor spring event. “I see more young crafters with innovative ideas, and the [OAA Craft Fair] is becoming a unique opportunity to bring in fresh angles to see Okinawan culture,” Yeganeh said. Lake plans on making the drive from Temecula once again for this year’s event. “And the stories behind [everyone’s] crafts – it motivates me to continue and work harder. I feed off their passion for our culture!” FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)WHERE CAN I PARK?
In addition to street-side parking, limited free parking is available at Faith Works Church across the street from the OAA (16401 S. Western Ave., west side of Western Ave. next to Nisei Inn). Please respect the space and lock your car doors (the OAA is not liable for loss or damages). Faith Works Churchで無料駐車場。県人会会館の向かいにあるWestern Ave の西側、Nisei Inn の隣 (車のドアをロックしてください。OAA は紛失や損害について責任を負いません。) WHICH PAYMENT METHODS WILL BE ACCEPTED?
Payment methods differ from vendor to vendor, so guests are encouraged to bring both cash and credit card. WILL THERE BE FOOD?
Food or drinks will not be for sale. However, some vendors will have snacks available (baked goods, candies). (See vendors list below) CAN I BRING MY PET?
No – Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on site. Service animals are permitted. HOW DO I APPLY TO BE A VENDOR?
A vendor interest form is posted every year around January/February. Please keep an eye out on our social media pages or sign up for our monthly email list. IS MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED TO ATTEND?
No – This event is open to the public! (If you're interested in being a vendor at next year's event, there is an application fee discount for current OAA members.) |
ITEMS AND VENDORS
(Subject to change without notice)
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VENDORS • 売り手たち
(Listed vendors or items subject to change without notice)
OAA MERCHANDISE
Books, buttons, stickers, t-shirts, and more! OAA PLANT SALE OAA WHITE ELEPHANT SALE (Note: Donated items are lightly used and have been checked for damage; majority of items are not Okinawa-related) USED BOOK SALE (BENEFITTING THE OAA LIBRARY) (Note: Donated items are varying in age and quality; majority of books are not Okinawa-related) |
Help us provide a community-friendly platform for local creatives!
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VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
ボランティアが必要 None of our activities would be possible without the time and effort of dedicated volunteers! (Service hours available for students)
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MAKE A DONATION
寄付する Your tax-deductible monetary donation will help with offsetting necessary expenses that make this event possible! Please send a check or money order to:
16500 S. Western Ave. #103 Gardena, CA 90247 (Or, donate online via Ko-Fi) |