The 63rd Yonezawa Summer Water Fireworks Festival — 5,000 fireworks launch into the night sky
Yonezawa's 63rd summer cooling fireworks rise from the moat of Matsugasaki Park — built on the former seat of the Uesugi lords — on August 7, 2026. From 19:30 to 21:00, 5,000 water fireworks double themselves in the castle moat, while local musicians perform from 18:00. Yonezawa Station is a 25-minute walk.
Few fireworks venues carry this much history: the moat that once guarded the Uesugi castle becomes the launch pad, and every burst lands twice — once in the sky, once in the water below. The 2026 edition, the 63rd, runs from 19:30 to 21:00 on August 7 with 5,000 shells and an expected 4,000 spectators. The evening starts early: local artists take the stage at 18:00, so arriving before then buys both entertainment and a good spot. There is no parking at the venue — the 25-minute walk from JR Yonezawa Station, or a 10-minute drive from Yonezawa-Chuo IC for those who sort parking elsewhere, are the options. Paid viewing seats exist; confirm details with the organizer. Bring your own food, as no stalls are listed, and let the castle-town night do the rest.