January Music Festivals [2026]: Winter Fests, Outdoor Live Shows, and a Roundup of New Year Music Events
In this article, I’ll be introducing music festivals taking place in January! You might not associate the dead of winter with music festivals, but surprisingly, music events are held across the country.
There may not be many, but there are annual staples as well as new, buzzworthy events you won’t want to miss.
As you read, find the perfect event to kick off your year with your first music festival of the season.
- January Rock Festival Lineup [2026]
- 2026 Roundup of Popular Winter Festivals: Music Festivals for the Cold Season
- February Music Festivals [2026]: A roundup of winter festivals, outdoor rock festivals, and other music events
- Rock Festival Calendar for February [2026]
- EDM Festivals Across Japan [2026]: A Roundup of Dance Music Events
- [2026] December Music Festivals: Winter Fests and New Year’s Countdown Live Roundup
- List of Idol Festivals Nationwide [2026]
- December Rock Festival Calendar [2026]
- List of Rock Festivals Nationwide [2026]
- Winter Music Festival in Eastern Japan [2026]
- Winter Music Festival in Western Japan [2026]
- March Music Festivals [2026]: A roundup of music events such as spring festivals and outdoor rock festivals
- Spring Music Festival in Eastern Japan [2026]
Past events
HandMade In Japan Fes’Sat 1/17 – Sun 1/18, Tokyo
Hosted by Creema. Embracing the spirit of the former “Made in Japan” in handmade works, a festival for creators—not just musicians—will be held at Tokyo Big Sight. A colorful array of markets and numerous workshops where you can experience making things will also be featured, offering two creative days to enjoy.
| Schedule | Sat–Sun, Jan 17–18, 2026 |
| place | Tokyo Big Sight, Koto City, Tokyo Metropolis |
| Website | https://hmj-fes.jp |
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Kotobuki Shiriagari presents New Year! (Ltd.) Saru-Hage Rock FestivalSat, Jan 17, Tokyo Metropolis
This is a rock festival organized by manga artist Kotobuki Shiriagari. It began with the idea that, while people might want to go to a rock festival, it seems like a hassle—so why not do it ourselves? It started as an internal event for company associates, and since 2008 it has been held as a rock event that draws an audience. The participating artists are truly eclectic: rock, solo acoustic sets, and uniquely individual performances that defy genre labels. It’s definitely more than just a rock festival—you’re guaranteed an experience unlike anything you’ve had before. I’d love to attend someday.
| Schedule | Saturday, January 17, 2026 |
| place | Shinjuku LOFT, Shinjuku, Tokyo |
| Website | https://sarufes.com/sarufes24 |
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GMO SONICJan 17 (Sat) – 18 (Sun), Chiba Prefecture
This is a large-scale music event organized by GMO, an internet services company, and Creativeman, an event planning and production company. Embracing GMO’s catchphrase, “No.1 Service,” the event aims to become Japan’s No.1 music festival, with an appealing concept to match. The lineup features buzzworthy artists from a variety of genres, including dance music and rock—not only from Japan but also special guests from overseas. It promises to be a special experience that makes you feel as if you’re at an international event while staying in Japan.
| Schedule | Sat–Sun, Jan 17–18, 2026 |
| place | Makuhari Messe, Chiba City, Chiba Prefecture |
| Website | https://sonic.gmo/ |
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Tama Music FestivalSat, Jan 17 — Kanagawa Prefecture
The cozy, community-driven music festival created by Tama Ward residents began in 2011. It’s held to provide a stage for artists active around Tama Ward and to boost local vitality and交流 through music. Participating artists cover a wide range of genres—jazz, brass band, dance, rock, pop—offering programs that people of all ages can enjoy. It’s a wonderful environment where local children can grow up familiar with music and have the chance to perform on stage. We hope you’ll join with your family!
| Schedule | Saturday, January 17, 2026 |
| place | Kawasaki City Tama Civic Hall, Kanagawa Prefecture |
| Website | https://www.ongakunomachi.jp/event/33835/ |
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Hamamatsu Ongyusai (Hamamatsu Sound Ball Festival)Sat, 1/17, Shizuoka Prefecture
| Schedule | Saturday, January 17, 2026 |
| place | Hamamatsu Madowaku, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture |
| Website | https://onkyusai.com/ |
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Kaikyo Fest.Sat 1/17–Sun 1/18, Yamaguchi Prefecture
| Schedule | Sat–Sun, Jan 17–18, 2026 |
| place | Kaikyō Messe Shimonoseki Exhibition and Trade Fair, Shimonoseki City, Yamaguchi Prefecture |
| Website | https://kaikyofest.com/ |
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HAKODATE WINTER JAZZ FESTIVALSun, Jan 18 — Hokkaido
| Schedule | Sunday, January 18, 2026 |
| place | Hokkaido, Hakodate City, Hakodate City Art Hall |
| Website | https://www.hakobura.jp/events/208 |


