Did you go to the Fuji Festival last weekend? I went there on Sunday and had a great time. I saw the parade of people as far as the eye can see, dancing to the Fuji samba. The parade is made up of groups and organisations from all over the city. For example the police and fire brigade had a brass band marching through the streets. I also saw traditional taiko drumming and mikoshi carrying. In central park there was a stage where dance groups performed throughout the day. The weather was great too. It was hot, but not too hot! I also got to eat the delicious food at some of the stalls there. I saw many of our students there. There is a great community spirit generated by the festival. You could see that the people are proud of their city and I really enjoyed the atmosphere there. The festival ended with a big fireworks display in the evening. I was surprised by the sheer amount of fireworks they had in the show. It must have cost so much money to buy that many! We got a good spot on the bridge to watch the show, but my daughter was a bit frightened by them so we moved further away until she felt safe. Despite that, she enjoyed her first Fuji festival. I always have fun at the festivals in summer. We should bring that tradition over to Ireland!

Alan