Make your summer festival even more fun! Trivia quizzes and fun facts for kids

yukata (summer cotton kimono)

At summer festivals and fireworks displays, many people wear yukata, which are comfortable and cool to wear. The word yukata originally meant 'bathrobe' and referred to a kimono worn after bathing, but today it is commonly worn during summer events such as festivals and fireworks.

Goldfish scooping

Goldfish scooping is a classic game at summer festival night stalls. It’s a pastime where you gently scoop and catch goldfish swimming in the water using a paper tool called a “poi.”

bad luck

In omikuji, “kyō” means bad luck. “Kichi” and “daikichi” indicate good fortune, while “kyō” represents poor fortune. Even if you draw an unlucky omikuji, you’ll be fine if you tie it at the shrine.

A festival that sends the spirits of animals to the gods

Iomante is a traditional Ainu ceremony in which the spirits of animals, such as bears, are sent back to the deities with expressions of gratitude. It has a long history, so if you’re interested, please look into it further.

Sanja Festival

Sanja Matsuri is a famous traditional festival held every May in Asakusa, Tokyo. It’s pronounced “Sanja Matsuri.” Known as the festival of Asakusa Shrine, it features many portable shrines (mikoshi) paraded through the streets.

sumo

Sumo is a traditional sport that has long been dedicated at festivals to pray to the gods for bountiful harvests and good health. It is also often held as an event at festivals.

Tamaya!

At summer festival fireworks displays, when beautiful fireworks spread across the night sky, everyone cheers with delight. Inspired by the name of an old fireworks artisan, Tamaya, people began shouting “Tamaya!” when fireworks go up. There’s also another cheer, “Kagiya!”