Japanese Fes, Sazón Latin Food bring global flavors to Austin this week

Two distinct celebrations offer Austin residents opportunities to engage with global traditions through food, music and community gatherings this weekend. The Sazón Latin Food Market runs this Friday at the South Austin Beer Garden and the JAPAN Fes happens on Saturday at the Federal Courthouse Plaza.

What to expect at Sazón Latin Food Market?

The Sazón Latin Food Market is hosting an event this Friday at South Austin Beer Garden (10700 Menchaca Rd.) from 6 to 11 p.m. The gathering is planned to honor the Independence Days of Venezuela, Argentina, Peru, and Colombia.

Attendees can expect a selection of authentic dishes from various Latin American traditions. The evening is also slated to include Latin music and DJs. Following the main event, a 21+ after-party is scheduled at Lulu's Austin (10402 Menchaca Rd.) from 10 p.m. to 2 AM.

Entry to both components of the Sazón Latin Food Market event is free. Tickets are available on EventBrite.

What to expect at JAPAN Fes?

Saturday will mark the arrival of New York City-based JAPAN Fes, making its first stop in Texas.

The Japanese food festival will feature several vendors. Little Nishi will offer sushi and hand rolls, as well as chicken karaage, seaweed salad, and taiyaki. Vegan Macarons will present French macarons with Japanese-inspired flavors like matcha, sakura, and miso. Asahi Imports will be on hand with Japanese snacks. Wagyu Clubs will feature wagyu skewers paired with Japanese rice balls, and Kuru Kuru Japanese Street Foods will offer freshly made takoyaki and mitarashi dango. The festival will also feature "Wayo Secchu" (Japanese-International Fusion) vendors.

This event will take place at the Federal Courthouse Plaza (445 W Fifth St.) from 5 to 10 p.m. JAPAN Fes is also a free event. Event parking will be available at the City Hall Garage, One Texas Center, Palmer Events Center, and RiverSouth.