16th Annual Japan Festival

The gong karaoke contest at the 16th Annual Japan Festival is expected to be fierce this weekend. At stake bragging rights until next year. The festival transforms Hermann Park into a sprawling culture zone with a program that also includes martial arts exhibitions, musical performances and classic Japanese dance. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. 6001 Fannin. For information, call 713-963-0121 or visit www.japan-fest.org. Free.

Sat., April 25, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., April 26, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., 2009