How many times have I gone to our local, annual Dekansho Festival? Eight? Ten? I lost track.
One thing is for sure. Every time I attend this phenomenal event, I smile ear-to-ear the whole time and have great fun!
This year, it was incredibly crowded. Which means a lot of people came from out of town. It still felt like one big, beautiful family! People dancing, eating, drinking, parading around with banners and signs.
My wife Masumi wore the traditional Yukata — a kimono for informal occasions — but I just went in street clothes.
One thing that always stands out: There are people of all ages, young, old, children. It truly is a family affair, even though one on the scale of 20-30,000 folks.
I find the music extremely charming. The vocals are a bit harsh for my Western ears, but I love hearing the traditions Japanese instruments. How do the vocalists keep up that singing for five hours two evenings in a row? They don’t even take a break!
Neither do the dancers . . .
Both nights at the close of festivities, there is a spectacular fireworks display.
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