Sky Lantern 2026 & Shiga Future Community Expo

Event Overview

On Saturday, October 3, 2026, the "Sky Lantern 2026 & Shiga Future Community Expo" will be held at the special venue in the P7 parking lot of Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryo. This special event blends the rich food and culture of Shiga Prefecture with engaging, hands-on experiences that can be enjoyed from afternoon until night. With a diverse program designed to let you see, taste, and experience the charms of Shiga, it is an ideal outing for families and friends.

Highlights & Activities

The absolute highlight of the event is the "Sky Lantern 2026" finale. Watching countless glowing lanterns drift into the night sky creates a truly mystical and breathtaking scene. During the daytime, the "Shiga Local Marche" will be open, offering a variety of local specialties, fresh vegetables, and delicious regional gourmet foods from across the prefecture. For children, there are plenty of exciting activities, including a "Working Vehicles Corner," sports experiences with the Toray Arrows Shiga volleyball team, and interactive sessions with micro pigs and reptiles. From kids to adults, there is something for everyone to enjoy through these unique sensory experiences.

Schedule

The event takes place on Saturday, October 3, 2026. Please note the specific timings for each activity:

• *Shiga Local Marche**: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
• *Working Vehicles Corner**: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
• *Sports Experience**: 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM
• *Micro Pig & Reptile/Insect Interaction**: Micro Pigs 12:00 PM – 5:30 PM / Reptiles & Insects 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• *Festival Stalls (Ennichi)**: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• *Sky Lantern (Lantern Exchange)**: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
• *Sky Lantern (Release)**: 7:30 PM onwards

Venue & Access

The event is held at the special venue in the P7 parking lot of Mitsui Outlet Park Shiga Ryo.

Located within the outlet park, it is easily accessible from various sightseeing spots in Shiga, allowing you to combine the event with a shopping trip.

Participation Tips

There are two ways to participate in the Sky Lantern event: via advance reservation or on the day of the event. Pre-booking allows for a smoother experience and more affordable rates. If you choose to participate on the day, please arrive early as participation may end once the capacity is reached. Additionally, you can receive a discount on the Sky Lantern fee by presenting a shopping receipt from the outlet mall. Don't miss this chance to combine your shopping with a magical evening experience.

What to Bring & Etiquette

The event is held in an outdoor parking area. Since the Sky Lantern release happens at night, please bring clothing suitable for cooler evening temperatures. For those participating in the Sky Lantern event on the day, please note that cash is required for payment. If you plan to use the discount with a shopping receipt, remember to bring it with you. As event details may change or be canceled due to weather, please check the official website for the latest updates.