2026 Nagaoka Fireworks Festival: When and How to Plan Your Visit
The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, held every year on August 2 and 3 in Niigata Prefecture, is a popular event that draws attention from many people.
The 2026 Nagaoka Fireworks Festival will be held on Sunday, August 2, and Monday, August 3.
If you want the best experience, you’ll need to start preparing months in advance.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your trip.
Tip #1: Know the Dates
The Nagaoka Fireworks Festival is held on the same dates every year — August 2 and 3 in Niigata Prefecture. Mark your calendar early!
While waiting for the festival, enjoy browsing photos of past events and reading articles about the history of the Nagaoka Fireworks.
Tip #2: Follow Updates
It’s a good idea to check the Nagaoka Hanabi Dot Com website and social media regularly.
You’ll be able to find the latest announcements about hotel reservation lotteries, special viewing areas (sajiki seating), and other important updates for enjoying the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival — so you can plan ahead and secure your spot.
Tip #3: Understand Hotel Reservations
About six months before the Nagaoka Fireworks Festival, some hotels in nearby areas with good access to Nagaoka — such as Niigata City or Yuzawa — open for reservations on a first-come, first-served basis.
For the nights of the festival, hotels often have special pricing, which can be significantly higher than usual. Cancellation policies may also change, so read the terms carefully before booking.
Hotels within Nagaoka City are usually booked through a lottery system that starts around April.
If you want to enjoy the festival to the fullest, securing your accommodation before getting your tickets is one of the most important tips.
Tip #4: Check Information on Viewing Tickets
Details on ticket prices and seating types for paid viewing areas are usually announced in early April.
All seating is paid — there are no free seats or same-day tickets.
The lottery sales first prioritize Nagaoka City residents, and any remaining seats are then offered to the general public. Once the general lottery opens, apply as soon as possible.
Tip #5: Consider a Package Tour
If you want to relax and enjoy the festival without the hassle of planning every detail, consider booking a package tour offered by many travel agencies starting around May.
These tours often include fantastic seating to watch the Nagaoka Fireworks up close — such as box seating or reserved chair seating with breathtaking views.
Most packages include transportation (Shinkansen or bus), hotel accommodation, and fireworks viewing tickets. Some even feature sightseeing tours of Niigata’s famous spots the day after the festival.
Find a package that matches your travel style, and make your Nagaoka Fireworks adventure an unforgettable highlight of your trip to Japan.
