The Natsu Matsuri (Summer Festival) begins this Friday evening on the grounds of the Pacific Beach Hotel at 5:30 p.m.  It is a traditional Japanese summer festival with authentic Japanese street food booths as well as local Hawaii favorites.  The Pacific Beach Hotel is hosting the Natsu Matsuri every Friday, Saturday evening across from Waikiki Beach beginning July 27 through August 11, 2012. The traditional Japanese celebration will feature food, entertainment, bon dance, music and children’s games.

Everyone is invited with no charge for admission.Best photo, video and interview times are between 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.Every evening will feature Taiko drums performances and a bon dance (traditional Japanese dance to honor the ancestors). Traditional Japanese dishes will be sold including okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes), yakisoba (fried noodles), takoyaki (battered octopus), udon (noodles and soup), grilled corn, fried chicken, cotton candy, shave ice, Ramune (Japanese carbonated soft drink), draft beer and much more!

What: Natsu Matsuri (Summer Festival)

When: Every Friday & Saturday evenings, July 27 through August 115:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Where: Pacific Beach Hotel grounds

2490 Kalakaua Avenue (at Liliuokalani Ave.) Waikiki

Cost to attend: Free admission