All Fools Festival

Established in 1956 by local merchants near the station, the Akabane Baka Matsuri is a spirited event inspired by April Fools’ Day. While it features traditional music and street food, it is best known for its vibrant, less-than-serious atmosphere. The highlight is the massive parade on the final day, featuring thousands of participants in colorful costumes and red-themed attire. This lively celebration transforms the Akabane district into a sea of music and dancing, attracting hundreds of thousands of spectators annually.

The festival is centered around the East and West exits of JR Akabane Station, a major transit hub easily accessible via the Shonan-Shinjuku, Saikyo, and Keihin-Tohoku lines. Because “Akabane” translates to “Red Feather,” it is a tradition for many spectators and performers to wear red, contributing to the festival’s striking visual identity. While the flea markets and food stalls operate on both days, the Sunday parade is the main draw and causes extreme pedestrian congestion along the main shopping thoroughfares. Visitors should arrive before noon to secure a viewing spot along the Ichibangai shopping street before the primary processions begin at 1:00 PM.