[2026] Tearjerker Songs That Bring the House Down at School Culture Festivals

Nostalgic FutureNEW!Kamishiraishi Mone

Mone Kamishiraishi “Natsukashii Mirai” (Lyrics/Composition: Naotaro Moriyama) Music Video

Mone Kamishiraishi is an actress and singer who captivates people with her crystal-clear voice.

With melodies themed around hope for the future and bonds with companions, this heartfelt song strikes listeners deeply.

Brimming with warmth, it gently encourages young people who, while grappling with inner conflicts, are doing their best to live in the present.

Released in January 2022 as a cheer song, the piece was written and composed by Naotaro Moriyama and garnered attention as the theme for the 100th National High School Soccer Championship.

It was later included on the acclaimed album “name.” It’s perfect to play at the finale of a school or cultural festival after working hard together with friends to prepare.

Share the moving moment arm in arm with your classmates who spent those school days by your side.

Even if, even ifNEW!Ryokushokushakai

Ryokuoushoku Shakai 'Tatoe Tatoe' Music Video (93rd Senbatsu ver.) / Ryokuoushoku Shakai

This is a number packed with the same fervor as the cheering section in the stands, its refreshing brass sound stirring the heart.

Created by Ryokuoushoku Shakai, it was released in March 2021 and was later included on the album “Actor.” It’s also known for being the official MBS theme song for the 93rd Senbatsu High School Baseball Tournament and for being featured in a Funai Electric commercial.

The jaunty rhythm and vocalist Haruko Nagaya’s soaring voice make your chest swell with emotion! The gentle message that draws the scene of cheering into personal feelings is wonderful, and the image of sending encouragement again and again almost brings you to tears.

Play it for the finale of a school festival you worked hard on with your friends, and it’s sure to create a moving moment where all that effort is rewarded.

Be OkayNEW!LINDBERG

LINDBERG「Be Okay」Music Video

An encouraging song that gently stands by everyone who keeps looking forward and doing their best, even while tasting setbacks and frustration.

Set to the band’s signature crisp sound and poppy melody, it portrays the resolve to rise again, even while hurt.

This track was released in April 2026 by LINDBERG, a group that has led Japan’s pop-rock scene.

It has also drawn attention for being chosen as the 2026 theme song for ABC’s professional baseball broadcasts.

Beyond the heat of sports, the song offers a universal cheer for people who devote themselves earnestly to everyday life.

Give it a listen together when you hit a wall while preparing for a school or cultural festival, or when you want to deepen your class bonds.

It’s sure to give you a gentle push forward.

Best friendNEW!Snow Man

Snow Man “Best Friend” Official Lyric Video

Snow Man is an idol group that has gained popularity for their high-level dance skills and vibrant individuality.

“Best Friend,” included as a B-side to their 2023 single “Dangerholic,” is a perfect friendship song for reaffirming bonds at school and cultural festivals.

Set to a mid-tempo, light rhythm and gentle melody, it straightforwardly expresses gratitude—saying “thank you” to a best friend.

Although it isn’t tied to any dramas or other media, the warm chorus work, where each member’s voice blends together, resonates deeply.

Why not choose it as background music for a stage dedicated to teammates who prepared together or to your cherished friends?

together; along with; bothWANIMA

WANIMA – Together (OFFICIAL VIDEO)

A signature song by the three-piece punk rock band WANIMA, it’s a number that can energize anyone.

It’s included on their indie release “JUICE UP!!”.

After being featured in a Kao NIVEA commercial, it became widely known and was even performed on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen! Its message—never give up no matter how tough things get—resonates with all generations.

Perfect for a school festival: cover it with a band or have the whole class sing it—either way, it’s a song everyone can get excited about!

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If you laugh at the skywacci

wacci “If You Laugh at the Sky” Music Video

The song that wacci released digitally in July 2018 is a warm masterpiece depicting youth and friendship.

Its lyrics, centered on moments when hard work pays off and the bonds between friends, resonate deeply with listeners.

In particular, the phrase “Don’t cry, stand tall, lift your head and smile” gives you the courage to face hardships.

The track went viral on social media and drew widespread empathy.

It’s characterized by wacci’s signature warm melodies and delicate vocals.

It’s also perfect as a theme song for school festivals and culture festivals, and is recommended for times when you want to look back on memories with friends.

lilacMrs. GREEN APPLE

Mrs. GREEN APPLE “Lilac” Official Music Video

A song that delicately portrays the brilliance and bitterness of youth, along with the struggles of growing up, was released by Mrs.

GREEN APPLE in April 2024.

It gently embraces moments where the transience of life, the passage of time, hope, and anxiety intersect.

This work is a message song that emphasizes the importance of accepting your past self and finding the courage to move toward the future.

It was chosen as the opening theme for the TV Tokyo anime “Oblivion Battery” and received high acclaim, including winning the Grand Prize at the 66th Japan Record Awards.

With Mrs.

GREEN APPLE’s refreshing pop melodies and profound lyrics in perfect harmony, this piece will gently encourage young people who want to create memories at school festivals and cultural events.