[2026] For cherished memories: A roundup of hype cheer songs for cultural and school festivals

flash[Alexandros]

[Alexandros] – Flash (MV) Theme Song of Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway's Flash

[Alexandros]’s song captivates listeners with a rock sound brimming with momentum that soars from the very first line and a grand, expansive scale.

The lyrics, interweaving opposing emotions—anxieties and hopes about growing up, loneliness and bonds, past and future—resonate deeply in the heart.

Released in May 2021 as their 19th single, it was chosen as the theme song for the film Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway.

It’s a perfect track not only for dances and events like school sports festivals, but also for moments when you want to elevate each other with your teammates or need the courage to face a new challenge.

MAGICsumika

sumika / MAGIC【Music Video】

The blaring horn section gets you pumped up whether you like it or not! It’s a song by the pop-rock band sumika, included on their 2016 release SALLY e.p.

That lively, fun sound is so quintessentially sumika! Even when you’re weighed down by worries or run into a wall, this song makes you feel like you can push through.

It’s a wonderful piece that adds a brilliant splash of color to the quintessential youth events of school and culture festivals!

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Araki Jakkan

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Fanfaresumika

sumika / Fanfare [Music Video]

An uplifting anthem that strikes a chord with its driving melody and bright lyrics! It’s a song that encourages a brave first step—from darkness into light, breaking out of your shell.

The invigorating sound alone gives you energy, and the storytelling—accepting your own weaknesses while stepping into a new world—is memorable.

This refreshing track, woven by sumika’s band sound, was released as a double A-side single in August 2018 and also drew attention as the opening theme for the animated film “I Want to Eat Your Pancreas.” It’s perfect for school festival dances, choirs, or band performances, and is sure to gently embrace the entire venue!

one’s true feelingssumika

sumika / Honne [Music Video] *Theme song for the 99th All Japan High School Soccer Championship

A cheering song that stays close to the days of youth and gently wraps the bonds among friends! This is a track by sumika, released in January 2021 as the support song for the All Japan High School Soccer Tournament.

With a refreshing touch, it portrays young people who, even while carrying setbacks and regrets, encourage one another and strive forward together.

Included on the album “AMUSIC” and featured in a TV commercial for Aisin Corporation, this song warmly supports not only students devoted to sports, but everyone who throws themselves wholeheartedly into something—be it a school festival, a club activity, or any passionate pursuit.

wishsumika

sumika / Wish [Music Video]

Sumika is a band that’s in constant demand for commercials and theme songs.

Their charm lies in a J-pop style that pairs moving compositions with gentle vocals.

Their clear, straightforward lyrics and melodies are the highlights, and they’re sure to beautifully elevate the mood of any school or cultural festival.

If you use this song as background music while preparing or practicing before the big day, it will surely become a once-in-a-lifetime memory.

Isn’t it wonderful to have a song that, whenever you hear it, brings back those days?

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Murakami Shinpei

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Helloyama × bocchiboromaru

yama × Bocchi Boromaru “Hello” MV (TV anime “Pokémon” opening theme)

A heartwarming collaborative piece by yama and Bocchi Boromaru, brimming with positive energy as a rousing anthem.

It carries a message that awakens hope for the future and a spirit of adventure, with a simple yet powerful melody that resonates deeply.

The song is approachable for a wide audience and was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Pokémon starting in October 2023.

In December 2023, it was released on CD in two formats: a standard edition and a limited-time production edition.

As a positive track that makes you want to sing along with someone, it’s perfect for cheering at sports days and athletic festivals.

Raise your voices together with friends under the blue sky, and it will surely become a wonderful memory.

YELLikimonogakari

YELL – Ikimono-gakari (Full)

A powerful ally in tough times! Ikimono-gakari’s uplifting cheer song will turn your school festival into an unforgettable memory.

It’s a warm track that gently stays by your side through days swaying between anxiety and excitement about a shining future.

The lyrics overflow with the determination of working toward goals with friends, and the moving emotions of setting out on a new journey at graduation.

Even 13 years after its 2009 release, it’s still performed at many school events and was chosen as an NHK School Choir Contest (N-Con) required piece—a long-selling number.

Kiyoe’s clear, soaring vocals also cast light on a moment of youth.

It’s a classic that gives you the courage to take a step toward something new.