The internet seems mixed on where the origin of Yakisoba came from, but it is generally believed to have come from China, evolving from the Chinese dish "chow mein," which then adapted into its modern form after WW2. This makes it a food that is cherished by young and old, alike.
The festival had dancers, performers, local bakeries and businesses all contributing to a celebration of their famous Yokote Yakisoba. A dish that is not only delicous, but also a local point of connection. Yokote Yakisoba is different from other yakisobas because its noodles have square, flat ends topped with an egg and fukujinzuke (pickled vegetables). You can see them on one of the photos (look for the little pinish red pickles!)
In the modern era, we oftentimes get lost in our phones and miss out on wonderful opportunities right in our home communitites. But going to events like this, festivals dedicated to food with egg mascots, can remind us how powerful community can be as a force for connection and culture. This festival taught me a lot, both in terms of learning a new dish and by reminding me why it is important to connect with local communities at home, and learn from communities far away.
