Yamagata – 15 Aug Akagawa Fireworks Festival

Information as of July 2026. Please check the official website before your visit.

Introduction

The Akagawa Fireworks Festival (赤川花火大会), which illuminates the summer night sky of Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture (山形県鶴岡市), is one of Japan's leading fireworks displays, proudly proclaiming itself as "Japan's Most Moving." Approximately 12,000 fireworks are launched on a grand scale, synchronized with music, against the backdrop of the vast Akagawa Riverbed (赤川河川敷). The "National Design Fireworks Competition" (全国デザイン花火競技会) is also held, where top-level pyrotechnicians from across the country compete in skill and artistry, captivating all visitors. The theme for 2026 has been announced as "HIBIKI - Resonating Emotion, Towards a Brilliant Future," embodying a wish for deeply moving experiences and a bright future that illuminates the region.

Event Overview

The Akagawa Fireworks Festival is a fireworks display held on the Akagawa Riverbed (between Mikawa Bridge and Haguro Bridge) in Tsuruoka City, Yamagata Prefecture. It is known as the "National Design Fireworks Competition," where pyrotechnicians from across Japan compete in skill and beauty, featuring artistic fireworks synchronized with music. Approximately 12,000 fireworks illuminate the night sky across a maximum launch width of 700m, drawing spectators into a whirlwind of emotion.