Eisa is a dance from Okinawa usually performed to mark the end of the Obon period (an annual Buddhist event to honour one’s ancestors). Like most things Okinawan, it's been enthusiastically embraced by the rest of the country, as demonstrated by this Shinjuku parade.
A total of 22 Eisa dance troupes are expected to take to the streets around Shinjuku Station. Performances during the day (1pm-4pm) will take place near the station's east exit on Shinjuku Avenue, while evening performances (5pm-7pm) will be held near Yodobashi Camera, Odakyu Halc and the Shinjuku Mitsui building.
Expect to see dancers twirling their way through the crowds to the beat of portable taiko drums. This will surely be a boisterous and colourful event to brighten your Saturday. Slap on some sunscreen, grab a handheld fan and get there early: it's guaranteed to be crowded.
Check the event website for event schedules.