Kikkoman Cookout brings together food, music, and community in Jefferson

JEFFERSON, Wis – The wildfire smoke lifted from the Wisconsin skies, offering a perfect day for the second Kikkoman Cookout on July 18, 2026. Hundreds of people came out to Rotary Park along the Rock River to enjoy taiko drum and koto performances and sample foods from local chefs paired with delicious Kikkoman sauces. We welcomed return guests and newcomers, including many people who learned about the event through the radio, social media and some by happenstance, drawn in by the colorful tents, aromas, and lively activities.

It was an ideal matsuri festival with heat and sun as children and families enjoyed suika wari (watermelon smashing), origami, yoyo tsuri (balloon fishing), and a kimono photo booth hosted by our Wisconsin Japan Outreach Initiative (JOI) Coordinators, Keiko Morikawa and Sae Iino.

Katsu Shack, Nani, Kona Ice and Asahi Beer USA offered traditional matsuri foods and beverages and guests enjoyed Kikkoman samples and goodies.

At the JASWI booth we were thrilled to connect with many members and meet potential new members and people eager to learn about all the Japan–Wisconsin connections that exist and are continually being strengthened and built. We also heard remarks from the CEO of Asahi Beer USA and representatives from Jones Dairy Farm and Nestlé about their Wisconsin companies’ ties to Japan. 

Thank you to Kikkoman Foods, Inc., Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson Live Music Foundation, Jones Dairy Farm, and Asahi Beer USA for coming together to put this event on and help support the Jefferson Food Pantry.