Celebrate Tanabata (Star Festival) this summer by simultaneously launching up to 3,500 sky lanterns beside Saitama Stadium 2002.
Tanabata is a traditional Japanese festival where people write their wishes on strips of paper and hang them on bamboo branches. This seven-day event, however, puts a modern spin on the custom. The sky lanterns are illuminated with LEDs instead of candles, making them safer and more family-friendly. At 8.30pm, the lanterns are released into the night sky, but unlike traditional floating lanterns, they remain tethered with strings, allowing them to be easily controlled and retrieved afterwards.
While artist line-up details for 2026 are unannounced, expect to see music performances each day by artists such as Chris Hart and Chay on the entertainment front, as well as festival favourites such as shateki shooting games and food stalls serving traditional matsuri grub. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to write and hang your wish on a tansaku paper slip.
Lanterns are handed out every day until 8pm. Tickets are available for purchase on the official website.