Latest Events in Okinawa Prefecture(November Updated)

The Katsuren Castle Ruins celebrates its 25th anniversary as a World Heritage Site. The Katsuren Castle Sky Lantern Festival 2025 will be held on November 2nd, 8th, 15th, and 23rd! Approximately 200 lanterns will float in the night sky. The island-wide Lion Dance Festival will also be held on November 23rd.

From July to November 2025, YOASOBI will start its first domestic tour with 40 performances in 14 counties across the country. This is the first Hall tour in the country for YOASOBI.

This winter illumination event takes place at the Ryukyu Hotel & Resort Meijo Beach, a luxurious seaside resort located in the southern part of Okinawa's main island. Approximately 300,000 lights will adorn the hotel grounds, bringing to life the winter nights of Okinawa. This event, held for the second time following last year, will incorporate new flame effects in addition to lights and music, creating an even more fantastical entertainment experience. The venue features a main area featuring a shimmering sea of ​​light and the Moon Shrine "Ryukyu Castle," as well as a pool area with mysterious lights leading to the shrine, leading visitors into a dreamlike world of light.

Nago Castle Park is located in the area surrounding Nago Castle. Every year from late January to mid-February, the deep pink cherry blossoms bloom in a breathtaking display. The Nago Cherry Blossom Festival is held on the last Saturday and Sunday of January each year, taking place in the festival plaza of the cherry blossom park, Nago Jujiro Avenue, and Nago Fishing Port, with Nago Castle Park at its center. During these two days, various activities will be held on a special stage and in the pedestrian street. Members of various neighborhood associations will lead parades, street dances, and street performances, adding vibrancy to the Nago Cherry Blossom Festival. Don't miss this opportunity to stay in Nago City and fully explore the city.

Experience the thrill of the Swimming for Gold Swim Meet 2024 MCCS Aquatics in Chatan, Okinawa. This exciting event will take place at the Camp Foster Pool on March 23, 2024. Participants are invited to dive into the competition and have a splashing good time. The entry limit for individual events is a maximum of 3, with a sofa-status entry period closing 3 days before the meet date. Entry is free, and swimmers must provide their name, gender, age, school grade, and the high school they would attend if they were on-base. ODST Youth Swimmers will have their events chosen by coaches, while Non-ODST Swimmers can select their own events and indicate an entry time if desired. Swimmers will be seeded based on entry times for mixed events, with awards given by age group and gender. Age groups range from 8 & Under to 18 & Older, with ribbons awarded to the top 8 finishers in the 10 and younger age group for individual events. Don't miss out on this opportunity to showcase your swimming skills at the Swimming for Gold Swim Meet 2024 MCCS Aquatics.

Join the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. for an exciting Youth Engagement Day in Kadena. This event, designed for youth aged 5 and above, offers a range of both classic and modern field games at the Kadena K Field behind the Youth Center (bldg 1849). Activities include tug-of-war, balloon race, blindfolded minefield, and flag football. Participants will not only enjoy these engaging games but also have the opportunity to take part in icebreakers and conversations before each activity. Expect a fun-filled afternoon of socializing, physical activity, and friendly competition on the field. Complimentary drinks and snacks will be provided for all attendees. Don't miss this chance to showcase your skills while having a great time in a welcoming and inclusive environment. Mark your calendars for March 23, 2024, and come join in the festivities at Youth Engagement Day with Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. in Kadena. Admission is free for all.

The Schwab Warrior Challenge 5k March 2024 MCCS Adult Sports event will take place in Nago at Camp Schwab on March 30, 2024. Participants aged 15 and above from both Okinawa and beyond are welcome to join this exciting event. The race will kick off at 10:00 am, featuring a 5K run with obstacles, including a 400-meter swim in the pool. Registration is open until 10:30 pm on March 27, with an entry fee of $50. All registered participants must check in at the Schwab Medical Center parking lot between 8:30 am and 9:30 am on the event day. A mandatory participant brief will be conducted at 9:35 am. Top three male and female finishers will receive awards. Please note that minors aged 15 to 17 must have a parent or guardian present during the event. For further inquiries or registration, contact adultsports@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org or call 098-970-5555 ext. 625-2654 after the dial tone.

Witness an exciting face-off between ACE and GCE at the upcoming MASS-2 Golf Tournament scheduled for April 5th at 07:30. The event will take place at the prestigious Kadena Air Base Banyan Tree Golf Course in Chatan, Okinawa. Prepare for an unforgettable showdown as these two esteemed teams battle it out on the green. The tournament promises a thrilling display of skill and sportsmanship as competitors strive for victory. Don't miss your chance to be a part of this memorable event. Tickets are available for $55.20. Mark your calendars and join us at the MASS-2 ACE VS GCE GOLF TOURNAMENT on April 5th for a day filled with excitement and camaraderie.

Welcome to the exhilarating world of Okinawa's Strongest April 2024 MCCS Adult Sports! This prestigious event is set to take place in Ginowan at the esteemed MCAS Futenma venue on April 6, 2024. Spectators and participants alike can look forward to witnessing top athletes showcase their skills and determination in various challenging competitions. With a ticket price of $50, attendees will have the opportunity to experience the thrill of the competition up close. As the excitement builds towards this event, make sure to mark your calendars and secure your tickets early to avoid missing out on this electrifying display of athleticism. Don't miss the chance to be part of Okinawa's Strongest April 2024 MCCS Adult Sports and witness the strength and resilience of these remarkable athletes as they compete for glory.

Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival 2024 is a highly anticipated event that will take place in Ginowan, at the breathtaking Tropical Beach. Scheduled from April 13th to April 13th, 2024, this festival promises to be a mesmerizing experience for all attendees. With a staggering display of 10,000 vibrant and colorful fireworks, Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival is set to captivate the audience. Against the backdrop of the tropical beach, attendees will be treated to a symphony of awe-inspiring pyrotechnics, perfectly synchronized with enchanting melodies. As you immerse yourself in this extraordinary event, you will be transported to a world of wonder and amazement. The festival offers a unique opportunity to witness the magic of fireworks, as they illuminate the night sky in a symphony of colors and patterns. Ryukyu Kaiensai Fireworks Festival is an experience that will leave a lasting impression on all who attend.