Summer Christmas

What Is Summer Christmas?

August 25th is "Summer Christmas" (Samaa Kurisumasu) in Japan. The event began in 1974, when radio announcer Yoshio Hayashi (1943-2002), a host of the late-night TBS Radio program "Pack in Music," responded to listeners who suggested that "if December 25 is Christmas, August 25 should be a summer Christmas," and called for a gathering. August 25 was also Hayashi's birthday.

A Second Christmas, Born on the Radio

Summer Christmas began as a way for listeners and fans to share a special midsummer night unlike anything the winter holiday could offer.

• Origin: The event started in 1974, when announcer Yoshio Hayashi of TBS Radio's "Pack in Music" called on his listeners to gather.
• Character: In the first year, a modest gathering was held in a park near TBS.
• A program still remembered: The show and Hayashi's era are depicted in the nonfiction book "1974-nen no Samaa Kurisumasu" (Shueisha, 2016).
• Another anniversary: The same program is also said to be the origin of "September Valentine" on September 14.

A Playful Idea Born From Late-Night Radio Culture

Late-night radio in 1970s Japan was a hotbed of youth culture, generating passionate followings. The playful notion of "why not have Christmas in summer too" fostered a sense of togetherness between the show and its listeners. Hayashi is also known for introducing talents who later became famous, such as singer Yumi Arai (Yuming) and entertainer Tamori.

Ways to Mark the Day

• Enjoy summer-style illuminations or a festive gathering
• Spend a special evening listening to your favorite music
• Learn about the late-night radio culture of 1970s Japan
• Plan an out-of-season Christmas party with friends or family

A Night That Lifts Spirits, Any Season

Summer Christmas reminds us of the freedom in sharing joy without being bound to a particular season. On August 25th, take a moment to experience a second Christmas, in the middle of summer.