2026 JRA New Year’s Reception

On January 26, the Japanese Restaurant Association of America held its New Year’s reception at the Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Torrance.

The association is a nonprofit organization made up of owners of Japanese restaurants and food-related businesses.

Currently, about 200 companies are registered in Southern California alone, and the association works to promote authentic Japanese food culture through hygiene guidance as well as Japanese food events and community service activities.

Along with JRA members, about 100 representatives from Japanese American organizations attended.
Consul General Murota of the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles spoke about the outlook for promoting Japanese cuisine in other states, while President Shinji Kugita shared his goals for the coming year.

After the toast, guests enjoyed sushi and drinks while networking with one another.
The event concluded with President Kugita presenting certificates of appreciation to three major food wholesalers for their contributions.

2026 Pechanga Lunar New Year Celebration

A variety of Lunar New Year celebration events will be held throughout February at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula.

Pechanga Resort Casino runs its annual Lunar New Year promotion at this time every year, and on February 3 an overview of this year’s program was presented to Asian media.

The highlight is a grand raffle with prizes totaling $888,000.
The first prize winner will receive a Ferrari in celebration of the Year of the Horse.

During the period through February 28, Pechanga Rewards members can earn entries simply by playing slots or table games.
Membership in Pechanga Rewards is free.
The final drawing will be held on February 28, when the Ferrari winner will be announced.

Pechanga is currently decorated throughout the resort to create a festive New Year atmosphere.

Through March 8, three of the resort’s Asian restaurants are offering special Lunar New Year menus.

In addition, on February 21, a free lion dance performance will be held, providing opportunities to enjoy the Lunar New Year in many ways beyond the casino.

For more details, please visit the “Lunar New Year” page on the Pechanga Resort Casino website.