Dragonfest 2025: Honoring Martial Arts, Community, and Culture

Organized by the Martial Arts History Museum, Dragonfest returns to the Glendale Civic Auditorium on August 2, 2025, for its 19th year. What began as a gathering of martial artists has grown into something deeper: a bridge between the traditions of Asia and the practitioners who carry those traditions forward around the world.

“This is our chance to open a window into the soul of Asian culture,” says museum founder and president Michael Matsuda. “Dragonfest isn’t just about honoring martial arts legends—it’s about understanding the philosophies and cultural roots that shaped them.”

Dragonfest is a charity event, with all proceeds going directly to the Martial Arts History Museum. The funds support ongoing efforts to preserve the stories, artifacts, and traditions of martial arts for future generations. “This is about safeguarding a legacy,” Matsuda says. “One that belongs to all of us.”

The event brings together hundreds of martial artists, historians, performers, and fans. Attendees will find more than 100 booths featuring cultural goods, martial arts gear, traditional crafts, and creative expressions like anime and calligraphy. But it’s the sense of community that defines Dragonfest—where young students meet pioneers, and conversations between styles and generations unfold naturally.

Throughout the day, Dragonfest will host educational talks and demonstrations by figures such as Benny “The Jet” Urquidez, Michelle Manu, and Willie Ito, offering personal insights into the evolution of their disciplines. These sessions invite us to look beyond the physical techniques and explore the values, histories, and struggles that shaped modern martial arts.

Past guests have included Cynthia Rothrock, JJ Perry and Dr, Robert Goldman

Cultural performances—Chinese lion dance, Okinawan music, Hawaiian hula, and more—will add further depth to the experience, reminding us that martial arts traditions exist within a broader cultural and spiritual context. Artist Akusaa Powell and special guests from across the entertainment and martial arts worlds will join the day’s celebration.

And in true Dragonfest fashion, there will be room for cosplay and creativity, too—an expression of martial arts’ influence on today’s wider cultural landscape.

Sponsors this year include Dr. Kemi Price, the Musashi Collection, the City of Glendale, Supervisor Kathryn Barger, and Dr. Robert Goldman—individuals and organizations who understand that cultural preservation is a community effort.

Dragonfest 2025 Glendale Civic Auditorium Saturday, August 2, 2025 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Proceeds benefit the Martial Arts History Museum

More info at Dragonfest.com or contact mamuseum@gmail.com.