The Sakai Matsuri began in 1974. It is still held every year in October, and it is Sakai's largest event. The highlight is a parade of 7,000 people on a path down the middle of the street (called the "symbol road"), with an international folk dance parade, a European Renaissance costume parade, a matchlock rifle corps, and floats carrying enormous drums. Visitors can enjoy a variety of events that offer a taste of Sakai's history and traditions, including the Nanban market, with its booths serving food and drink from around the world and exhibitions of local specialties for sale, as well as the large tea ceremonies connected with the tea master Rikyu at Daisen Park and Nanshuji Temple.