Thanks to differences in the lunar calendar and Gregorian one, Sendai chooses to have its Tanabata festival in August! Probably the biggest Tanabata celebration in the country, the most striking feature of this festival are the brightly colored streamers and paper decorations that are hung above the main drags and shopping arcades. The Sendai Tanabata celebration has been going on since the time of Date Masamune, who became the first lord of the Sendai area in the 17th century. Now the locals of the area work hard to create these paper decorations and create a magical environment, day and night. There's even a big fireworks festival the night before Tanabata is celebrated, making it a perfect time to check out Sendai.