Enjoy the most merry of Christmases with all five senses! 

The holiday spirit is coming to Fukuoka this year! Starting from November 1st (Saturday), Fukuoka’s Christmas Advent is coming to various parts of the city. Bringing a stunning 12 million people together, this event is among the largest of its kind in Japan. Far more than just a regular market, come and enjoy the enchanting cultural experiences that have made this event a staple of Fukuoka’s winter season!

The scale of the event was expanded together with a change of name in 2023, and this year promises to be the largest yet. Illuminations, classical music performances, and contemporary art installations come together to enchant all five senses in the “World’s Merriest Christmas”, wrapping Fukuoka in a cozy blanket of holiday cheer. We hope you too will come by to experience this combination of love, light, and music! 

①    Light: Illumination and Marketplace

Located amid the glitter of warm and magical lights, the popular marketplace attracts the throngs of eager pedestrians and revelers. Resembling a scene from a European Christmas market, one can purchase mulled wine, goodies, and choose from a wide variety of foods to try. 
In particular, the CHRISTMAS MARKET in The City of Light・Hakata located in front of JR Hakata Station and Forest of Light in the Tenjin Chuo Park are must-see hot spots!

②    Sound: Classical Music Performances

From November 20th (Thursday) until December 21st (Sunday), the Fukuoka Classical Music Festival will also be held in conjunction with the Christmas markets. The opening will feature performances by tenor singer Masafumi Akikawa and popular violinist Fumiaki Miura. Fukuoka will transform into a stage for classical music. 

③    Art: Circuses and Contemporary Artistry

Every day in the Forest of Light, aerial swings and silk performances will grace the skies, and top artists will be bringing their best to these magical performances daily. Also planned are collaborations between traditional dollmaker Nakamura Ningyo and modern artists, and as always there will be the limited-edition mug cup specific to this year’s festivities. 
List of locations

This year's event will be held in popular areas both inside and outside Fukuoka City. Please note that start dates vary by venue!
・JR Hakata Station Front Plaza “CHRISTMAS MARKET in Hakata, City of Light” (Nov 1 - Dec 25)
・Tenjin Central Park “Forest of Light” (Nov 13~)
・Fukuoka City Hall West Side Fureai Plaza “TENJIN CHRISTMAS MARKET” (Nov 15~)
・Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City “Christmas Gate Park” (Nov 14~)
・Nakasu Area “Hikari no Advent” (Nov 4~Jan 6)
・Former Fukuoka Prefectural Public Hall VIP Building Plaza “FESTA de SANTA” (Nov 12~)
・Fukuoka Airport, Momochihama, Kokura Area, and more—scheduled to be held at over 9 locations in total!