Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival

On the second Saturday and Sunday in February of every year, the whole area of Matsugasaki Park becomes the main venue of a festival in which candles are lit in about 300 snow lanterns and 1,000 snow Bonbori (small cavities made in snow). People in each shop and house make their own snow lanterns and snow Bonbori that illuminate the entire city. The warmth and beauty of the glowing landscape created by the soft light of the candles add a mystical touch to the atmosphere and invite the visitors to a world of fairy tales. A regional products exhibit is held under a large tent where visitors will discover not only local specialties, such as Yonezawa ramen, stews, beef skewers, and konjac balls, but also delicious products from other regions with a close relation with Yonezawa. A food stall is also available to eat hot meals while enjoying the snow lanterns.