In Japan, people consider watching fireworks with family and friends as a sign of welcoming the summer season. Just like they would be viewing the Sakura blossoms around Japan at the beginning of spring. Originally fireworks were used to ward off evil spirits, now a great entertainment for the entire family. Great chance for people to take out their summer kimono
（Yukata, made mainly from cotton textile or linen ）both women, men and children wear to the festivals.
The festivals will not only be for viewing the entertainment but to enjoy the street vendors selling wonderful food, anything from Yakisoba, grilled corn on the cob to candied apples. There are also vendors having stalls with games, like water filled balloon yoyo to scooping up goldfish.
Unfortunately the fireworks in the Tokyo area have been canceled due to COVID, such as the Sumida River, Edogawa River and Kamakura. Not yet sure as of now, the fabulous Jingu Gaien Fireworks. There are many smaller local ones possibly being held this year, please kindly check the local news bulletin.
The fireworks being scheduled this year are the following：
Toyota Oiden Festival in Aichi Prefecture
July 30-July 31
Held by Yahagi River and Toyota Stadium
Nagaoka Fireworks in Niigata
August 2- August 3
Lake Suwa near Kiso Mountain in Nagano
August 1-August 15 everyday from 8:3030-8:40
Naniwa Yao River in Osaka
August 27
Toyota Oiden Festival in Aichi Prefecture
July 30-July 31
Held by Yahagi River and Toyota Stadium
You still can purchase hand held home fireworks at your local convenience stores to enjoy in your backyard or designated parks in your neighborhood. Be careful, have a pail of water handy and make sure all the fire is well extinguished.
Enjoy your summer in Japan, eating some shaved ice, or watermelon while watching the colorful fireworks sprinkling in the dark sky.