夏なつの花火大会はなびたいかい

In the Japanese summer, fireworks festivals are held all around the country. Crowds gather by rivers or near the sea to enjoy the light spreading across the night sky.

On that day you often see people going out in a "yukata", a light cotton kimono. A yukata is easier to put on than an ordinary kimono, and walking in wooden geta sandals makes a sound that feels like summer.

Food stalls line the area around the venue, where you can buy things like fried noodles and shaved ice. Sharing food with friends while waiting for the start is part of the fun.

When the fireworks go up, the sound reaches your body a moment later. At the end many fireworks are launched one after another, and a great cheer rises from the watching crowd.

The venue gets very crowded, so they say it is best to pick your spot early. The stations are packed on the way home too, so it is wise to move with plenty of time to spare.