On May 16, 2026, Okazaki Red Diamond Stadium in Aichi Prefecture will host "Anime Classics Anison Fire FES Okazaki," an immersive entertainment live event presented by the Anime Classics Okazaki Performance Executive Committee. The event fuses iconic anime footage from the Showa and Heisei eras with opening and ending theme songs, synchronized in real time with world-class fireworks displays. The event is also being held as a pre-celebration for Okazaki City's 110th anniversary of its city establishment. Advance ticket sales opened on March 19, 2026 via the official website.
Event Highlights
The concept behind Anime Classics Anison Fire FES is straightforward: classic anime visuals from the Showa and Heisei eras are projected on massive screens, while fireworks are launched in sync with the theme songs. The result is a "see, hear, and feel" experience that sets it apart from conventional fireworks events. The ability to bring together works from multiple production companies under the "Anime Classics" banner is what makes this multi-franchise format possible.
The event's program is planned to include approximately 30 songs, consisting of 26 theme songs plus a few special program pieces. The lineup is designed to appeal to a wide range of generations, from younger audiences to those in their middle and senior years. Appearances by popular VTubers are also being considered; details will be announced progressively via the official website and social media.
Anime Classics Anison Fire FES and Japan's Anime Market
According to the Japan Animation Association's "Anime Industry Report 2024," Japan's anime-related market expanded to 3.8407 trillion yen in 2023, with overseas revenue surpassing domestic sales, marking a new high for production company revenues at 466.2 billion yen. Additionally, the Cabinet Office's Cool Japan Strategy estimates that anime pilgrimage travelers number 1.41 million per year, with spending of 38.2 billion yen and latent demand reaching 3.1 million people and 480 billion yen. Tourism spending by inbound visitors also reached a record high of 5.2923 trillion yen in 2023 (Japan Tourism Agency).
Against this backdrop, the Okazaki event aims to draw anime fans from Japan and abroad to Aichi Prefecture, presenting a new entertainment model that combines regional economic revitalization with the promotion of Japanese pop culture.
Team Kura-Kos Participatory Program
The Okazaki event will feature "Team Kura-Kos," a cosplay group made up of four popular gravure idols: Fuka Hanasaki, Ayu Hazaki, Ina Naruse, and Momo Momose. Beyond performing on stage before the fireworks show, the group will interact with fans throughout the venue, handle photo sessions, and lead call-and-response activities to keep the event lively.
Attendees are also welcome to come dressed in anime character costumes to enjoy the songs and dancing together, making the event accessible to both cosplay fans and anime fans alike.
Event Details
Event Name: Anime Classics Anison Fire FES Okazaki Performance
Date: Saturday, May 16, 2026
Gates open: 4:00 PM / Fireworks show starts: 7:00 PM / Estimated end: 8:00 PM
Proceeds in rain; cancelled in severe weather.
A stage event is planned before the fireworks show.
Venue: Okazaki Red Diamond Stadium (Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture)
Capacity: Approximately 6,000 / All-paid seating; no free viewing areas
Program: Approximately 30 songs total — 26 opening/ending themes + several special program pieces (planned)
Ticket Types: General Reserved Seating / Premium Seating / VIP Seating (Limited goods-included plans available)
Tickets: Advance sales started March 19, 2026 via the official website
Organizer: Anime Classics Okazaki Performance Executive Committee
Co-organizer: Okazaki City
Upcoming Announcements
- March 27: Team Kura-Kos member announcement
- Early April: Special MC announcement
- Mid-April: Behind-the-scenes posts by Team Kura-Kos members (Instagram / X)
- Late April: Anime song setlist announcement
- May 5: Final ticket push posts
- May 15: Countdown posts and venue preparation reports
- May 16: Live event-day coverage (X / Instagram / YouTube)
Official Website: https://animeclassics-hanabi.jp/
X: @aniclahanabi
Instagram: @aniclahanabi
TikTok: @aniclahanabi
Official YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@animeclassics-anison
