Marking its 44th year, the Sumida Festival is designed to raise Sumida’s “hometown” profile and promote the local community by way of residents and local government joining forces to plan and run the event. Main attractions will include on-stage events (a “character show,” karaoke tournament, traditional Japanese dance, wadaiko Japanese drums, hula dance, goodwill ambassador certification ceremony, vaudeville from the shitamachi traditional downtown neighborhoods, etc.), as well as an exhibition of products from affiliated towns and cities, refreshment stands, a PR corner, etc.
The target of the Children’s Festival, which celebrates its 49th outing this year with a new and improved program, is the health and safety of children, and the desire for children to grow up bright and energetic as well as the expansion of friendship and solidarity between kids. Highlights will include various areas where children can try making things (Sumida City Gymnasium), outside open space for kids to experience moving their bodies around (Kinshi Park Baseball Field) and the Children’s Festival Parade.