WasabiFest, presented by SakéOne, returns to Portland on Saturday, June 13. This immersive festival spotlights the vibrant and complex flavors of real wasabi, celebrating Oregon’s unique status as one of the few regions outside of Japan where the plant thrives.
Attendees can expect an array of bold dishes ranging from savory to sweet. The festival features live demonstrations from Markus Mead, co-owner of Oregon Coast Wasabi and one of the nation’s leading experts on wasabi cultivation.
Complementing the culinary offerings, SakéOne, America’s first craft saké brewery, will anchor the event with premium saké samplings. Guests can explore a curated selection of both Oregon-crafted and Japanese-imported sakés, highlighting the deep craftsmanship of both regions.
WasabiFest 2026 has a lineup of live performances and interactive events, including:
Portland’s premier Japanese drum and dance ensemble, Takohachi, returns to the festival stage with two live, high-energy performances. Known for their heart-pounding taiko drumming and the soulful melodies of the shinobue (bamboo flute), Takohachi blends traditional Japanese festival music with modern kumi-daiko spirit to create an unforgettable, festive atmosphere.
Back by popular demand, the signature wasabi-eating contest returns, bigger and bolder for 2026.
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