September Music Festivals [2026]: A roundup of fall festivals, outdoor rock fests, and other music events

This is the spring event of the Kochi Machi La La La Music Festival, held in the heart of Kochi City. As the season begins to feel like spring, the festival offers outdoor live performances that turn the city into a stage, creating a warm atmosphere that brings performers and audience closer together. It’s beloved by both residents and participating artists. Anyone who loves music can enjoy this event as the city and audience come together as one, making it highly recommended for those who want to start making music, those thinking about taking it up again, or anyone interested in participating in various ways.

Koyabu Sonic is hosted by Chihiro Koyabu, a hugely popular TV personality known for Yoshimoto Shinkigeki. The event will take place over three days using Halls 2 and 5 at Intex Osaka. In addition to performances by the Yoshimoto Shinkigekis band—formed by Yoshimoto comedians who are expanding their activities across the country—many comedian stages are also planned.

Akita-born singer-songwriter Yu Takahashi hosts the outdoor festival Akita CARAVAN MUSIC FES. His dream since his major-label debut—to energize Akita through music—has finally come true. As the word CARAVAN in the event title suggests, the festival changes its venue every year, aiming to tour all 13 cities within Akita Prefecture.

This is an outdoor festival hosted by WANIMA, the popular three-piece rock band known for doing commercials and theme songs. Holding a festival they run themselves in their hometown of Kumamoto is a long-awaited event for both the band and their fans! I can’t wait to see which of their close-connected bands will be on the lineup. It’s a must-see event for fans who want to fully enjoy both music and Kumamoto. If you’re visiting Kumamoto for the first time, be sure to set aside plenty of time and go have fun!