Furano Navel Festival -- Streaming Version
As previously announced, due to Covid-19, the annual Furano Hokkai Heso (Navel) Festival has unfortunately been cancelled. In its place, however, will be a unique streaming version to be broadcast on YouTube from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. tonight.
The various groups that usually march in the parade for fame, honor, and actual cash prizes have submitted a video version of their performance to the official Navel Festival Committee. Beginning at 6:00 P.M. tonight, the performances will be livestreamed on YouTube, and the judges (who I believe will be wearing shirts) will select a winner from the contestants.
So, it's not live, but it's the next best thing for folks whose year is just not complete without seeing some painted belly buttons!
Here is the link for the live stream: https://hesomatsuri.com/
And remember, for those considering visiting the Navel Festival in the future, you too can actually join in the parade with your abdomen gloriously painted up for the photo op of a lifetime! Plan for it, and we'll see you next year on July 28-29!!