Join us this August for Earth Celebration (EC), now in its 39th year. The festival takes place throughout the seaside town of Ogi on Sado Island, where the festive sounds of taiko will fill the air and energize one and all. From our signature Harbour Concerts—the heart of the EC lineup—to immersive workshops and bustling markets, get ready for a special summer experience that only EC and Sado Island can offer. On the EC festival map, there are three main areas in Ogi—Blue, Yellow, and Green—taking festivalgoers to a range of great locales throughout the historic port town. Blue Area is centered around Ogi Port Park, home to EC’s main stage—hosting the nightly Harbour Concerts—and Harbour Market, a popular hangout with plenty of stalls. Yellow Area surrounds the historic Ogi Shopping Street district, Triangle Park, and Ayusu Hall. You’ll find EC Fringe performances, workshops, and markets here along with shops and eateries. Green Area encompasses Kisaki Shrine and hilltop Shiroyama Park–the latter will host a pop-up campsite, providing convenient accommodation during the festival. ☆Program Highlights☆ Harbour Concerts (Blue Area) From a 15-year collaboration to a world premiere, this year’s Harbour Concerts promise to uplift and energize you day after day. We begin by sharing a special summer version of Miyake-jima Geino Doshi-kai and Kodo’s Matsurine, bringing their driving festival sound to EC like never before. Next, the evocative sounds of the Mongolian landscape meld with Kodo's pulsating beats for Earth Echoes, a collaboration with Khusugtun where the traditions of two lands resonate as one. Finally, we’ll take all that festive energy to supercharge the finale, Onwards, creating the momentum to carry us toward EC’s 40th anniversary next year and beyond. Join us as we celebrate the power of rhythm, music, and connection, surrounded by nature here on Sado Island. Day 1 | Aug. 21 (Fri) Matsurine — Summer Special Director: Kenta Nakagome (Kodo) Featuring: Miyake-jima Geino Doshi-kai, Kodo Day 2 | Aug. 22 (Sat) Earth Echoes — Kodo x Khusugtun Director: Jumpei Nonaka (Kodo) Featuring: Khusugtun (Mongolia), Kodo Day 3 | Aug. 23 (Sun) Shukusai — Onwards Director: Yuta Kimura (Kodo) Featuring: Kodo Workshops & Experiences (Yellow Area + Other Areas) We've prepared a fun lineup of activities for people of all ages to enjoy, including: ・opportunities to learn and try local folk performing arts ・Japanese instrument workshops (beginner to advanced options) ・eurhythmics activities for kids to enjoy music, movement, and play ・a visit to Kodo Rehearsal Hall, which is usually closed to the public Free Events (Yellow Area) The town area including Ogi Shopping Street, Triangle Park and Ayusu Hall will have performances and other free events to enjoy. ・Special Fringe ・Dreaming of the Kodo Stage—All About Kodo Apprentice Centre ・Fringe (Applications currently open!) ・Ogi Shopping Street Events Markets There will be three pop-up marketplaces during EC to enjoy tasty treats and find an array of goods: Harbour Market (Blue Area), Fringe Market and EC Fair in Ogi Shopping Street (Yellow Area). Please help reduce waste by bringing a shopping bag and reusable cutlery. Get Involved in EC Many people pitch in each year to help make Earth Celebration a success. There’s a variety of ways to lend a hand, like signing up as a supporter, Fringe performer, or Harbour Market stall holder. We are also looking for taiko groups who want to perform at Big Little Taiko Fest. Help us make EC fun for everyone! The Fringe performer and Harbour Market stall holder applications are now open! (Applications close May 15) You can also apply to: ・Perform at Big Little Taiko Fest 2026 (Applications close April 26) ・Become an EC Supporter (Applications close June 30) New information will be added to our website in the coming days and weeks, so be sure to check in for the latest event info. Ticket sales will start from May 15 (Fri). We look forward to seeing you on Sado Island this summer for Earth Celebration!