Japanese Summer Festivals are celebrated in July and August. There are many types of festivals that take place during that month. Let’s find out about them!

Tanabata Festival

The Tanabata Festival is celebrated in July. During that festival, people write down a wish on colorful pieces of paper and hang them on bamboo, hoping that it will come true. There is a legend related to the Tanabata Festival. The Gods Orihime and Hikoboshi were separated by the Milky Way and can only meet on the seventh day of the seventh month, once a year.

Obon Festival

During this festival, people dance to honor their ancestors. People also take the time to see the tombs of their ancestors.

Special elements about the summer festivals

Clothes

People wear a special kind of kimono that is made for the summer. It is called a Yukata. Men generally wear plain colors and obi belt lower. Women wear more colorful yukatas and put their obi belt higher. They also have to put their hair up with a decorative clip. Children wear a modernized yukata dress, which is similar to a dress. If you do not wish to wear a yukata, you can just wear normal clothes during the festival.

Fireworks

Japan fireworks are bigger and more colorful than the ones in North America. They also last longer. They also picture animals, cartoon characters, or anime.