You might be surprised, but it’s quite common to hear people on Erabu say, “There are so many events and gatherings that it’s hard to keep up.”
Because there are no large-scale entertainment facilities like cinemas or shopping malls, people often find themselves both enjoying and creating entertainment for others. On Amami Ōshima, another island in the Amami Islands, it’s said that “entertainment culture is flourishing.” Events are held by various groups such as village communities, towns, chambers of commerce, fisheries cooperatives, women’s associations, and other volunteers—sometimes independently and sometimes in collaboration.
Since most islanders travel by car, and the weather on Erabu can be warm enough for T-shirts even in winter, it’s rare to see people outside casually. However, during major events organized by the towns or the island as a whole, a surprisingly large number of people gather. These are great opportunities to experience the island’s community atmosphere. For those considering moving here, we highly recommend visiting during one of these major events. Even after relocating, attending a variety of gatherings is a great way to get involved.
Here are some of the major annual events held by the towns, local commerce groups, and schools for your reference.
January
- Coming of Age Ceremony (Chinami Town / Wadomari Town)
- New Year Town Relay Race (Wadomari Town)
- Town Relay Race (Chinami Town)
- Lunar New Year (especially celebrated in Taminami, Serikaku, Shona, and Kunigami) *Primarily involves family and local cemetery visits
February
- Island-wide Relay Race (Chinami Town / Wadomari Town)
March
- Flower Festival & Hana-no-Shima Okinoerabu Jogging Event (Wadomari Town)
- Graduation Ceremonies (All schools)
April
- Entrance Ceremonies (All schools)
- Hamauri Festival (Chinami Town / Wadomari Town) *Held alternately by the towns each year
- Satsuki Sumo Tournament (Wadomari Town)
May
- Satsuki Festival (Chinami Town)
June
(No major events listed)
July–August
- Obon (August 13–15)
- Hometown Summer Festival (Chinami Town)
- Port Festival (Wadomari Town)
September
- Respect for the Aged Gathering (Chinami Town / Wadomari Town)
October
- Town Sports Day (Chinami Town / Wadomari Town)
November
- Agriculture Festival (Wadomari Town)
- Industry Fair (Chinami Town)
December
- Lifelong Learning Festival (Chinami Town)
