Welcome to California Kimchi Day

California Kimchi Day celebrates Korean culture, food, and community. At its heart is kimchi—fiery, fermented, and rich with history.

What began as a survival food is now a symbol of identity and tradition.

The day honors Korean American contributions across California, from kitchens to civic life—gathering, remembering, and evolving, one jar at a time.

WHAT IS KIMCHI DAY

A Celebration of Culture and Community

Kimchi is more than a beloved Korean dish; it is a symbol of family, tradition, resilience, and community. Every year, California Kimchi Day celebrates the people, stories, and cultural heritage behind one of Korea’s most iconic foods while recognizing the lasting contributions of Korean Americans to our state’s rich cultural landscape.

 

Whether you’re discovering kimchi for the first time or celebrating a lifelong tradition, this website is your place to explore the history of California Kimchi Day, learn about Korean culture and cuisine, discover the people keeping kimchi traditions alive, and experience the stories that connect generations through food.

Join Us in 2026​

Join us on Saturday, November 21, 2026, at the Los Angeles Arboretum for California Kimchi Day 2026, a celebration of culture, community, and connection. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., guests will enjoy cultural performances, local vendors, educational exhibits, family-friendly activities, and our signature Kimjang (kimchi-making) workshop, where participants can experience one of Korea’s most cherished traditions firsthand. The Los Angeles Arboretum’s mission to inspire learning through nature makes it a fitting setting to celebrate the connection between agriculture, food, and culture.

WHAT IS KIMCHI DAY
Senator Steven Choi at 2021 California Kimchi Day Resolution