This year marks the 61st Abashiri Okhotsk Drift Ice Festival. Focusing on the drift ice, whose strength is declining year by year due to the effects of global warming, the festival will be held under the theme of "SAVE THE ICE SAVE THE EARTH" (protecting drift ice means protecting the Earth), as was the case last year. You can learn about the current state and appeal of drift ice, as well as what each individual can do to protect it.

<Scheduled events>
■Saturday, February 7th
10:30~ Snow sculpture judges' announcement and introduction of new and old Patara
11:00~ Opening Ceremony and Handover Ceremony at the Abashiri Air Base
11:40 AM - Giving thanks to the blessings of drift ice! Scallops flying in the sky!
(You can also win gifts from our sister cities! With the cooperation of Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture, Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, and Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture)
13:00~ Citizen Performance
14:15~ Hashiru Yusuke Song Stage
15:15~ Drift Ice Kayak Pulling Competition (Applications are now being accepted! Click here for details)
Sunset to 8:00 PM: Illumination of snow and ice sculptures

■ February 8th (Sunday)
10:30~ Number One Sentai Gojuja Show (High-five event held after the show)
11:45~ Cold Weather Radio Exercises
12:30~ "Anyway, Bright Yasumura" Comedy Stage
13:30~ Number One Sentai Gojuja Show (High-five event held after the show)
15:30~ Drift Ice Mikoshi and Mochi Throwing
16:00 Closing

■ 2-day regular event
10:00~ Okhotsk "Floating Ice Ring Toss"
10:00~ Drift Ice Trust Movement
10:00~ Firewood chopping experience & bonfire festival
(Cooperation: Abashiri District Forestry Association, Nordic goods and outdoor store mokki)