Top Songs to Hype Up Sports Day and Athletic Festivals [2026]

I am the strongest.Ado22rank/position

[Ado] I’m the Strongest (Uta from ONE PIECE FILM RED)

A powerful anthem of will and resolve from the film ONE PIECE FILM RED.

Released by Ado in June 2022, the song is notable for lyrics brimming with self-affirmation that wells up from deep within and heartfelt care for one’s companions.

The energetic, exhilarating rock sound crafted by Motoki Omori of Mrs.

GREEN APPLE and Ado’s distinctive vocals truly shine.

The song expresses the feelings of the film’s character Uta, depicting the process of acknowledging one’s own weaknesses and anxieties while overcoming them to grow stronger.

It’s a perfect track for rallying yourself at a sports day or athletic festival, or when you want to strive together with your teammates.

Curtain callYuuri23rank/position

Curtain Call by Yuuri: My Hero Academia Special Music Video / My Hero Academia Season 7 Cour 2 Opening Theme Anime MV

Singer-songwriter Yuuri, whose earnest vocals that resonate in the heart captivate many listeners.

Among Yuuri’s songs, the one we’d most like to see passionately danced to at a sports festival is “Curtain Call.” Released early in July 2024, this track was written as the opening theme for cour 2 of season 7 of the hugely popular TV anime My Hero Academia.

It features an emotional rock sound and a powerful message about facing hardships.

If you incorporate dynamic choreography that matches the explosive energy of the chorus, it will create a cool stage that boosts the sense of unity among upper-grade students.

It’s a dance number highly recommended for anyone aiming for a heated, high-energy performance!

Crimson Lotus FlowerLiSA24rank/position

LiSA “Gurenge” -MUSiC CLiP- (Anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” Tanjiro Kamado: Unwavering Resolve Arc Opening Theme)

This song depicts the courage to face adversity, with a powerful rock sound and a richly projected vocal that represents modern anime.

It captures the indomitable spirit of a protagonist striving to overcome countless hardships and the strong will to protect loved ones, resulting in a striking piece.

LiSA’s vocals brilliantly convey the story’s themes.

Released in April 2019, it was chosen as the opening theme for the TV anime Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, became a massive hit, and earned numerous accolades, including an appearance on NHK’s Kōhaku Uta Gassen.

Its dynamic, high-impact sound is perfect for sports days and athletic festivals, and it also works great as a rousing cheer song everyone can enjoy together.

We’ve gotta do what seems impossible.Sambomasutā25rank/position

Sambomaster / We’ve Gotta Do the Impossible MUSIC VIDEO

A positive, powerful song that makes kids want to move their bodies is one of Sambomaster’s popular tracks.

The lyrics convey the importance of taking on exactly what seems “impossible,” giving children confidence and courage.

Released in February 2010 as the theme for Nissan’s Serena commercial, the song was later used as the image song for the film Cheer☆Dance, capturing the hearts of many.

Combining energetic rhythms with a strong message, this track is perfect for those looking for music to dance to at events like sports days or recitals.

Even complex choreography can be easily adapted, so children who are new to dance can enjoy moving along!

Let’s give it a tryWANIMA26rank/position

Yattemiyou

“I’ll give you the courage to move forward!” This warm message resonates in this uplifting anthem.

Set to a bright and refreshing melody, it carries a positive spirit that says we can overcome difficulties together.

WANIMA’s powerful performance and the lyrics that gently nudge you to face forward are truly compelling.

Airing from January 2017 in au’s Santarō series commercials and included on the album “Everybody!!,” this song is a fantastic choice for school events—band performances at culture festivals or live shows, choir, sports days—any moment where you take on a challenge with friends and unite as one.

Sing it together and get fired up—it’s sure to become an unforgettable memory!

Brother BeatSnow Man27rank/position

Snow Man “Brother Beat” Music Video

Brother Beat was produced as an upbeat, party-style track.

It’s a song released by Snow Man and is also known as the theme song for the movie Osomatsu-san.

The structure has the nine members taking turns singing their thoughts and feelings.

Overall, it packs in a lot of comedic call-and-response elements that will make you chuckle.

Another hallmark is the abundance of rap parts.

It’s perfect when you want to create a lively, boisterous atmosphere.

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yamamoto

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Sugar Song and Bitter StepUNISON SQUARE GARDEN28rank/position

UNISON SQUARE GARDEN “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” Live Music Video

With its lively beat and pop sound, UNISON SQUARE GARDEN’s “Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is perfect for school sports festivals.

Released as a single in 2015 and used as the ending theme for the UHF anime “Blood Blockade Battlefront,” it reached No.

1 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100.

“Sugar Song and Bitter Step” is a technically demanding track, featuring many moments where the music briefly stops, which is why many people use it for dance routines.

There are plenty of videos on YouTube, so why not check them out for inspiration for your sports day dance?

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Hamada Takuya

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