例大祭 · れいたいさい · festivals
reitaisai
Annual grand festival at Shinto shrines.
Definition
The reitaisai is an important annual festival held at Shinto shrines, commemorating the deity enshrined there. It typically includes various rituals such as processions, offerings, and traditional performances. Each shrine's reitaisai is celebrated on a date significant to its history, often involving the participation of the local community. These festivities aim to express gratitude and seek blessings for the community.
Etymology
The term combines 'rei' (例), meaning 'example or precedent,' with 'taisai' (大祭), meaning 'great festival,' thus referring to the major celebration held at a shrine.