Date: February 3

Setsubun happens four times a year on the day before each new season. Setsubun itself literally means division of the seasons. Perhaps the most celebrated Setsubun is the Spring Setsubun, or Harumatsuri, which generally occurs on February 3rd.

Before the Gregorian calendar was adopted in Japan, the New Year of the Lunar Calendar was spring so this festival had special meaning in cleansing out the bad spirits and ensuring good luck and fortune for the year to come. One of the traditions at this time of year is Mamemaki, or the scattering of roasted beans. Beans are scattered outside the door of the house or at a family member dresses up as an Oni (demon). The beans are believed to ward off the Oni (devil) and keep good luck in the house. Makizushi or rolled sushi is one of the popular dishes at this time of year.