For Seniors: Festive Attractions to Liven Up Festivals—Games and Recreational Activities

Giant Menko

Today's activity at Day Service Asumiru

Shall we try a giant Menko recreation game? Prepare several large Menko cards with different colors on the front and back, and set up a platform with point values written in the middle.

Throw the Menko onto the platform and compete for the highest total score.

You can not only knock your opponent’s Menko off, but also hit them to flip them over and change them to your color—that’s OK too.

Be careful not to let your own Menko get knocked off!

Ring Relay

Spring Sports Day 3: Ring Relay

Festivals are events best enjoyed with a crowd.

Let’s liven things up with a “Ring Relay.” For preparation, make rings of large, medium, and small sizes using paper or toilet paper rolls, and pass them along to the next person by threading them onto chopsticks.

It works well as a game for small groups, and it’s also fun as a team competition for larger groups.

Through the relay, you’ll create opportunities to interact with those around you, helping to promote communication.

Since it can be done while seated, it should be easy for older adults to participate too.

Enjoy your time!

Takoyaki

Asakita Ward, Kameyama, day service, cooking club, takoyaki

Speaking of festivals, takoyaki is one of the most iconic foods, isn’t it? Making and eating takoyaki together really heightens the festive mood.

The takoyaki griddle—so common in Kansai households that it’s no exaggeration to say everyone has one—can be easily purchased at electronics retailers or variety shops.

Chatting away while making takoyaki together also helps strengthen the bonds between participants.

Cotton candy making

[Japanese Food Stall] Cotton Candy [Festival]

Many older adults probably remember eating cotton candy when they went to summer festivals as children! You’ll also see food stalls labeled “watagashi.” At summer festivals, it’s common to have the vendor make it for you.

But if you’re holding a summer festival at home or in a care facility, why not try making it yourself? Many people probably wanted to try it at least once when they were kids.

Nowadays, there are cotton candy machines that even children can use easily, so it’s simple to give it a try.

Be sure to take precautions so that older adults can enjoy it safely.