Hokkaido Music Festivals [2025–2026]: Outdoor Festivals and Events Summary

It’s an outdoor festival held in Hakodate, Hokkaido. Centered around up-and-coming artists active locally and across the prefecture, you can enjoy a wide range of musical genres. It’s quite a rare chance to see so many artists up close with free admission. Cheering on talented local performers and freely getting hyped with fellow music lovers—drink in hand—is a unique pleasure of outdoor concerts. After the show, it’s worth exploring local gourmet spots, and even traveling from afar to attend makes for a great trip.

JIM BEAM SUMMER FES, a free-admission event where you can enjoy Hokkaido’s famous cuisine and music while sipping a Jim Beam Highball made with the bourbon whiskey brand born in Kentucky, USA, will be held in Hokkaido! Spending summer like an adult—working up a sweat outdoors while enjoying drinks and music—sounds perfect, doesn’t it? With delicious, appetite-stimulating food and a Jim Beam Highball in hand, the live performances by participating artists are sure to make for the ultimate summer festival experience.

GANKE FES has been held in Shintoku, Hokkaido since 2014. Of course you can enjoy the music, but there’s also a campground, art events, and workshops, making it a packed festival that families with children can enjoy. Plus, the ticket options are great, with discounts for town residents and tickets available through the hometown tax program!

Do you know Sorachi, a region in Hokkaido? A new festival is launching at a nature-rich venue located between Sapporo and Asahikawa. After the spread of COVID-19, keeping our distance became part of everyday life. Even so, the concept of the festival is that we are connected like the sky above us—that even when we’re apart, music can unite us. To make it enjoyable for all ages, there will also be delicious food and a market featuring Hokkaido-focused offerings. As a unique pleasure of an outdoor festival, be sure to savor soothing music and great gourmet treats under the pleasant open sky.

It started as an early-summer music event born from OTO TO TABI, which has been held in Hokkaido during the winter. The venue, surrounded by Hokkaido’s nature, offers a pleasant space where time seems to flow slowly, letting you experience a break from the everyday. With an outdoor stage and lawn areas, it’s easy to enjoy freely and comfortably even with small children—another big plus. With music, forest bathing, food, and shopping in an appealing setting, it’s well worth going a little out of your way to check it out!