Mid June

Itoman Hare

Itoman, Okinawa

This is the most famous of Okinawa’s dragon boat racing festivals in which decorated boats are raced by teams of 8-14 men.  The local fishermen pray for safe sailing and good fishing. 

Late August

Eisa Festival

Okinawa City

This festival features traditional dance, music and drumming, and ends with a magnificent fireworks display.

10 October

Naha Festival

Naha, Okinawa Prefecture

The highlight of this festival is the giant tug-of-war, with a rope that weighs approximately 27tons and measures 1.5m in diameter.  There are also other entertainments such as traditional dance and music.

15 November

Shichi-Go-San Festival

Nationwide

Children age three, five and seven years are dressed in kimono and taken to shrines to pray for their future health and good fortune.

31 December – 1 January

Mabuni Fire and Bell Festival

Itoman City, Okinawa