Misawa Tanabata Festival

The Misawa Tanabata Festival has more than 70 years of history and is held in late July along the central shopping district and America Square. Colorful handmade decorations and streamers crafted by residents and local groups herald the arrival of summer. In the internationally flavored atmosphere unique to the base town of Misawa, stage events, parades, and rows of stalls draw both local residents and members of the U.S. forces stationed in Japan. Cherished as a symbol of Japan-U.S. friendship, it has become one of Misawa's defining summer celebrations.