Dontaku, derived from the Dutch word Zondag (holiday) is one of the largest festivals in Japan attracting two million spectators. On May 3 & 4, the parades begin with the Hakata Matsubayashi procession, which has celebrated the new year for the last 840 years. There will be food stalls, daytime performances on around 34 stages, and, in the evening, illuminated “Flower Cars” (decorated vehicles) roll through the streets. Spectators are also invited to jump in and join the So Odori communal dance as the May 4 parade comes to a climax!
For more information, check out our Hakata Dontaku 2019 Guide.
• 5/3 (Fri., hol.), 5/4 (Sat., hol)
• Parade times: 5/3 13:00~19:00, 5/4 15:00~20:00
• Free
• Around central Fukuoka City (the parade is along Meiji Dori Ave. ~ Tenjin)
• 092-441-1170
• http://www.dontaku.fukunet.or.jp/
