【October 12, 2025】18th Yamagata Citizens’ Sports Festa｜An Autumn Sports Festival for the Whole Family

What is the “Yamagata Citizens’ Sports Festa”?

The Yamagata Citizens’ Sports Festa is a large-scale annual event where people of all ages—from children to seniors—can enjoy various sports and activities together.
It offers hands-on experiences, sports clinics, and local food stalls, making it a fun-filled day not only for athletes but also for families and casual visitors.

Date and Venue

Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025
Time: 8:15 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Venue: Yamagata City General Sports Center (1 Ochiai-machi, Yamagata City)
Access: About 15 minutes by car from JR Yamagata Station. Parking is available.
Admission: Free / Open to the public

Organizers and Guests

Organized by: Yamagata City, Yamagata City Board of Education, and Yamagata City Sports Association
Special Guests:
- Former Japan National Volleyball Player Saori Kimura, hosting a volleyball clinic
- Local professional soccer team Montedio Yamagata, holding a soccer class for kids
- Local sports clubs and instructors offering a wide variety of experiences

Why is it Held?

The purpose of the event is to encourage Yamagata citizens to enjoy sports, improve their health, and create opportunities for intergenerational交流 (interaction).
Even those who are not familiar with sports can discover something new—from traditional games to the latest e-sports.

How to Participate

Many programs require advance registration (application deadline: September 30, 2025).
Some programs have limited capacity and may be decided by lottery.
Several activities, such as e-sports, VR ski jump, and family fitness tests, are available with same-day registration.
Participants are advised to wear comfortable sportswear.

Highlights of the Program

Volleyball Clinic by Saori Kimura (for elementary school students)
Montedio Yamagata Soccer Class (for children and parents)
E-sports Experience, VR Ski Jump, and AR Sports “HADO”
Horseback Riding & Horse-drawn Carriage Rides for kids and families
Cheer Dance, Basketball, Baseball, and Kendo experiences
Food Stalls & Kitchen Cars at the central square, serving local Yamagata specialties

Summary｜Spend an Active Autumn Day in Yamagata

The 18th Yamagata Citizens’ Sports Festa is an event where you can play, watch, and taste all in one day.
It’s a wonderful opportunity for families, friends, and visitors to enjoy sports and local culture in Yamagata.

👉 Whether you want to try a new sport, enjoy watching kids play, or simply taste Yamagata’s local food, this festival is the perfect way to spend an autumn day!

Official Links

Yamagata City Official Website:
https://www.city.yamagata-yamagata.lg.jp

Yamagata City Sports Association:
https://www.yamagatasi-taikyou.jp