Festivals and Events

Get a front row seat, or the true local experience, through our exclusive festival and event a la carte experiences.

Kurikoma Festival Float Behind the Scenes Tour

Although the floats can usually not be seen until the day of the festival, this year is different. From the end of the festival in July through the float dismantling in November, visitors can view the floats up close. This is a valuable cultural experience in which visitors can view the elaborate structure of the floats and brought to life through the passion of local residents, and hear directly from the local people themselves.

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Hanagasa Festival

The Hanagasa Festival is the largest festival in Yamagata City where thousands of dancers fill the streets. In 2026, join the dance yourself for the first time!

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Or, Attend Some Other Local Tohoku Festivals

Ika Tsuri Festival

At the Sakata Ika Tsuri Festival, onlookers cheer on the fishermen of Yamagata as they depart on their first squid fishing trip of the year.

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Sakata Festival

Held annually since 1609, the Sakata Matsuri is Sakata City’s biggest event. It boasts parades, performances, and hundreds of street vendors.

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