ANNUAL EVENTS
Spring
April
Kesennuma Tsubaki Marathon
The beauty of Oshima sets the stage for this marathon. It’s sure to be a memorable run as you make your way through the “ria” style coastline, winding in and out along stunning views of the ocean.
May
Kesennuma Azalea Festival
This festival held at Kesnnuma’s “Umi no Ichi” celebrates the blooming of the azaleas at Mt. Tokusenjo, as well as Kesennuma’s various points of appeal. Local goods for sale, performances from local artists, and even a massive raffle for a chance at prizes make this a bustling event! Come savor the bounty of the mountains and ocean at this festival for the whole family.
Summer
July
Swimming Season Open
(Kodanohama Beach, Koizumi Beach, Oisehama Beach)
These three beaches open for swimming in the summer, and attract crowds of fun-loving beach goers. Koizumi Beach is also a popular spot for surfing.
August
Kesennuma Minato Matsuri Festival
Celebrating with the hopes of safe sea excursions and bountiful catches, this is the biggest summer festival in the region: “Kesennuma Minato Matsuri”. Parades and dances from Kesennuma locals along the port area keep the atmosphere lively, and in the night, attendees are treated to shows and firework displays from boats on the harbor waters.
Mackerel Ship Send-off
Kesennuma port boasts one of the most prolific mackerel catches in Japan. Once the season starts, the large mackerel ships leave port as part of a ceremony, with the townspeople giving them a grand send-off, praying for their safe and successful return.
Autumn
September
TOUR de TOHOKU
Cycle for Tohoku in the “TOUR de TOHOKU”. Aside from raising funds for the ongoing disaster recovery, this event hopes to commemorate and immortalize the memories of the disaster this region has faced. It started in 2013, and develops every year thanks to the support of riders, staff, and volunteers from all over Japan. Let’s ride on the path to recovery together!
October
Kesennuma Sangyo Matsuri Festival
The largest event among the many in the fall season, this festival has both scale and tradition. A score of shops gather to sell local goods like produce, seafood, crafts, dried fish, treats, and much more. Start with a hearty breakfast of freshly grilled mackerel before enjoying a day bursting with fun-filled events.
Mooland Festival
Play with the ponies and rabbits, milk the cows, churn some butter, then have some barbecue and ranch fun at this all-day jamboree.
November
Rias Oyster Festival in Karakuwa
Karakuwa's largest event, enjoy their fresh oyster bounty to your heart's content. Have them grilled or raw, then marvel at the shell-stacking contest later in the day!
Araiso Matsuri Festival
The local fishing and agricultural associations as well as maritime industries get together to set up shops and sell seafood and veggies at bargain prices. You'll also see events like the tuna fillet show, and the mochi toss!
Winter
December
One-Line KESENNUMA ILLUMINATION
Once a beacon of light, the inner bay “Naiwan” area of Kesennuma lost its shine after the 2011 disaster, and thus its visitors. In the Christmas season, we adorn the bay with a stunning light display to reclaim its shine, and inspire the children who we’ll be handing Kesennuma to eventually. Come see the bright future for yourself!
January
Osaki Shrine Festival
A bustling festival to celebrate safety from adversity and fruitful fishing voyages, held at Misaki Shrine on the tip of Karakuwa.