Ichinoseki Summer Festival A major event (held first Friday, Saturday, Sunday in August) A bustling festival where 20 to 30 portable shrines are gathered from neighboring areas, and the town is decorated with festive ornaments. The big parade welcomes any participant to join. One of the most famous firework displays in Northeastern Japan is held on Friday evening by the Iwai River as part of the festival.

The Spring Fujiwara Festival Scenes from Heian are reenacted（May 1 through May 5） A festival in appreciation for the prosperity of the historic Fujiwara family, the event is held over a period of five consecutive days. The highlight of the festival is the historic procession held on the third day. Yoshitsune fled from his older brother Yoritomo's attack and was sheltered by Hidehira at Hiraizumi. The reenactment is performed in an elaborate parade with celebrity guests dressed up as Yoshitsune riding on a white horse. Held during Golden Week (a holiday studded week in May), the festival draws an enormous crowd every year.

Motsuji Temple Iris Festival Viewing of the luxurious garden with Iris in full bloom is a must for visitors (June 20 through July 10) Motsuji Temple features Japan's oldest garden designed in the Heian period (794 - 1185) style. The elegant garden resembling paradise is built around Ohizumigaike Pond and is one of the nation's designated places of scenic beauty. 280 varieties make up the 30,000 Iris that blossom during the festival, turning Motsuji into a temple of flowers. Many events such as performances, tea ceremonies and flower arrangement exhibitions are held at the temple, taking advantage of the beautiful site.