Los Angeles International Ukulele Festival

The Los Angeles International Ukulele Festival celebrates a century-old instrument that continues to bring joy and connection to communities worldwide. Now in its 10th year, this annual three-day event in Torrance, California has become a cornerstone gathering for ukulele enthusiasts ranging from complete beginners to professional musicians.

Festival Origins and Vision

Founded in 2015 by Mitch Chang, a University of Hawai'i music graduate and jazz ukulele student of Hall of Famer Bill Tapia, the festival was created with an inclusive mission: "for families and ukulele fans of all ages" to discover or rediscover the joy of making music together. The festival's core philosophy centers on the belief that the ukulele is more than an instrument—it serves as "a gateway to creativity and connection." Through performances, educational workshops, and community engagement, the festival aims to grow and nurture the ukulele community while fostering lasting friendships rooted in aloha and shared inspiration.

Festival Programming

Each September, the festival takes over the Torrance Cultural Arts Center with a diverse schedule spanning three days. Events include headline concerts on Friday and Sunday, Saturday performances across multiple stages, workshops for all skill levels, a ukulele marketplace featuring instruments and accessories from leading manufacturers, and a Sunday brunch. The multi-day format allows attendees to experience everything from casual jam sessions to professional-caliber performances by internationally recognized ukulele artists.

Venue and Logistics

Held at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center in the heart of the Los Angeles South Bay, the festival utilizes multiple indoor and outdoor spaces within the complex. Main stage performances take place in Torino Plaza, workshops occur in Toyota Meeting Hall and Ken Miller Recreation Center, the ukulele marketplace occupies the Entry Plaza, and beginner classes are held in the George Nakano Theatre. The venue features "two spacious outdoor plazas" and the Pine Wind Japanese garden, with "plenty of free parking" available to attendees. The location's proximity to LAX makes it accessible to visitors traveling from across the country and internationally.

Community and Legacy

Over nine previous iterations, the festival has hosted dozens of notable artists and ensembles, building a reputation as a premier gathering for the ukulele community. Past performers have included professional musicians, emerging artists, and community ensembles, reflecting the festival's commitment to celebrating diverse expressions of ukulele music. The festival's outreach efforts extend beyond the weekend event, with the founder's ongoing work to make music accessible and help people build connections through shared musical experience.