San Mateo’s Arts & Culture Fest Brings the World to Downtown

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San Mateo - The sound of taiko first caught Sharon Sakai's attention at Asian festivals, where the booming drums seemed to shake the air.

"I had always loved hearing and watching the taiko performances," she said. "So when I heard about taiko classes in my area I wanted to give it a try and I haven't left since."

That was in 1992, when San Mateo Buddhist Temple Taikowas just starting out. More than three decades later, Sakai is still drumming.

Her group will be among the performers at the September Arts & Culture Festin downtown San Mateo on Sunday, Sept. 28.

The free festival, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., will take place on B Street and surrounding blocks. Multiple stages will showcase Bay Area performing artists who specialize in everything from folklórico and kathak dance to jazz, hip-hop and soul.

Visitors can also watch live mural painting, sample a variety of international delicacies and bring kids to family art zones. The event is a collaboration of the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown San Mateo Association and the County's Office of Arts and Culture.

"The September Arts & Culture Fest is a wonderful opportunity to showcase and connect our creative community," said Aimee Shapiro, executive director of the County's Office of Arts and Culture. "More than 80 local performers, artists and poets will share their work at this free event, which helps expand access to the arts across San Mateo County."

In Japanese, taiko means "drum." Over time the word has also come to signify the art of drumming itself.

Taiko has deep roots in Japan, where it once carried military, religious and theatrical roles before being transformed in the 1950sinto an ensemble performance art.

San Mateo Buddhist Temple Taiko was founded by musician and storyteller Charlie Chin and is now guided by the artistic direction of Kristy Oshiro, continuing a tradition that blends community, culture and rhythm.

For Sakai, taiko has always been less about performance and more about connection. "Our group learns and plays taiko for fun," she said. "It's also great for the mind and body. I love the energy and the power of creating music together."

Organizers also see the festival as a way to showcase the energy of downtown and support local businesses.

"We're expecting thousands to join us, and I'm excited for people to experience the vibrancy and fun of Downtown San Mateo, all while supporting our local businesses," said Mackenzie Jakoubek, executive director of the Downtown San Mateo Association.

"The September Arts & Culture Fest is all about creating experiences that make people want to shop, dine and spend time in our wonderful downtown," said Erica Wood of the San Mateo Area Chamber of Commerce. "We also want to inspire civic pride by lifting up the incredible diversity and talent that define our city and county."

If You Go:

What: September Arts & Culture Fest 2025
When: Sunday, Sept. 28, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Downtown San Mateo (B Street and nearby blocks)
Cost: Free
Info: sanmateochamber.org/sept-fest

Aimee Shapiro
Executive Director
San Mateo County Office of Arts and Culture
[email protected]