The Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated Japanese Heritage Night during the first game of their series against the Miami Marlins at Dodger Stadium.
Fans who purchased the special Japanese Heritage Night ticket package received entry to the game and an exclusive jersey that celebrated the occasion. Additionally, there were exclusive food items for the event, including Japanese chicken curry, a beef teriyaki bowl and Wanpaku chicken sandwich.
Famed Japanese artist Takashi Murakami threw out the ceremonial first pitch and announced the customary “It’s time for Dodger baseball” prior to the game. He created a new Dodgers collection that launched on Monday in celebration of Japanese Heritage Night, including various t-shirts and a black sweatshirt.
There were also various forms of entertainment available for fans to take in prior to the game, with popular Japanese boyband JO1 among the performances in the center field plaza. JO1 performed their hit songs for the Dodger Stadium crowd.
On the field prior to the game, JO1 presented a $50,000 check to help support the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) and their various initiatives, including ongoing wildfire relief efforts.
The Dodgers have been actively involved in the recovery process for those who have been impacted by the fires, providing clothing, supplies, and financial resources. Dodgers players have been active participants as well, donating money as well as their time to areas impacted by the fires.
The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation intends to continue wildfire relief efforts throughout the year.
Japanese Heritage Night performances at Dodger Stadium
The Dodgers’ Japanese Heritage Night celebration featured plenty of pregame performances.
DJ XL Middleton was the first performer of the night, with his set focused on bridging the gap between modern funk and 90’s g-funk. City Pop Jam provided a sample of the nostalgic sound of 1980s Japan with their performance. LA Taiko Ichiza drumming ensemble continued the theme of musical stylings from Japan.
A new girl group from Japan, Bi-Ray, performed the national anthem.
It was the first of six scheduled heritage nights at Dodger Stadium this season, with Mexican Heritage Night, Filipino Heritage Night, Black Heritage Night, Salvadoran Heritage Night and Guatemalan Heritage Night coming later on this season.
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