LITTLE TOKYO : Parade to Kick Off Nisei Week Festival

The 53rd annual Nisei Week festival of exhibits and activities highlighting the Japanese-American community begins this weekend and runs through Aug. 15.

One of the most popular events is the Nisei Week parade, which begins at 4 p.m. today at 2nd Street and Central Avenue. The parade travels west on 2nd to Los Angeles Street, where it will head north to 1st Street and wind its way east.

Here is a list of other selected events. Most events are free.

All week:

* Plant sale--Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, 244 S. San Pedro St., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

* Rafu Shimpo newspaper’s 90th anniversary exhibit--Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, North Gallery, 244 S. San Pedro St., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Today:

* Samurai 5K Run--1st Street and Central Avenue, 8 a.m.; registration from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m.

* Aikido and Japanese swordsmanship demonstration--Japan America Theatre, 244 S. San Pedro St., noon to 2 p.m.

* Iida Miyuki fabric flower art exhibit--Higashi Hongwanji Temple, 505 E. 3rd St., 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

* Kimekomi handcrafted doll exhibit--Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, 244 S. San Pedro St., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday:

* Shigin (Japanese poetry) recital--Zenshuji Temple, 123 S. Hewitt St., 7 p.m.

Saturday and Aug. 15:

* Arts and crafts festival--Japanese American Cultural and Community Center plaza, 244 S. San Pedro St., 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

* Carnival--San Pedro Street between 2nd and 3rd streets, noon to 11 p.m.

* Gem and bonsai show--Higashi Hongwanji Temple, 505 E. 3rd St., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

* Japanese calligraphy displays--Yaohan Plaza, 333 S. Alameda St. and Union Church, 401 E. 3rd St., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

* Tea ceremony--Japanese American Cultural and Community Center, 244 S. San Pedro St., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday only:

* Karate exhibition--Centenary Methodist Church, 300 S. Central Ave., 1:30 p.m.

Information: (213) 687-7193.