Niigata Cooperative Festival Celebrates International Year of Cooperatives

On October 5, 2023, the Niigata Cooperative Festival, also known as the 23rd Cooperative Festival, was held at the Niigata City Industrial Promotion Center. Organized by Pal System Niigata Tokimeki, the event was dedicated to highlighting popular products through tastings while promoting the International Year of Cooperatives.

The festival saw participation from 15 local organizations affiliated with the Niigata Prefecture Cooperative Promotion Council, including agricultural cooperatives, consumer cooperatives, and fishery associations. Among the highlights was the Pal System booth, where attendees could sample cold shabu made from Japan's special rice pork, eagerly enjoyed by visitors.

In a dedicated section focusing on the International Year of Cooperatives, attendees were encouraged to contribute to a message tree that collected over 200 heartfelt responses showcasing the power of connections. Many messages expressed love for family and friends, while others included words like “smile,” “love,” and even gratitude for deliveries, showcasing the spirit of community and connection that cooperatives embody.

The festival was not just about products and messages, as various activities engaged families throughout the day. The event featured interactive experiences such as woodworking workshops and a “touch pool” with live fish, allowing families to learn and interact in a fun environment. There was also a lively photo session with beloved mascots, including Kon-sen-kun, and a rock-paper-scissors tournament that added to the festive atmosphere.

The Pal System booth was particularly bustling, with families enjoying the activities and children drawing pictures in place of writing messages. The joy of participation was palpable, illustrating the significant community interest in cooperatives and their impact.

As we approach 2025, the International Year of Cooperatives is a significant milestone, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and community engagement on a global scale. The collaborative efforts of local organizations demonstrated at the Niigata Cooperative Festival serve as a reminder of what can be achieved through unity and shared goals.

Pal System Niigata Tokimeki operates out of Niigata City, boasting 18,000 members and a total business revenue of 2.33 billion yen as of March 2025. Under the leadership of chairperson Etsuko Seno, this lifestyle cooperative continues to foster connections and inspire community growth through its initiatives. The Pal System cooperative federation, headquartered in Tokyo, further supports various member cooperatives across the country, highlighting the strength of cooperatives in Japan.

With 2025 on the horizon, stakeholders are gearing up to make the most of the International Year of Cooperatives, hoping to elevate awareness and participation in cooperative movements not just in Japan but around the world. Events like the Niigata Cooperative Festival are crucial in instilling the values of cooperation, making them relevant and engaging for future generations.

For more information about Pal System Niigata Tokimeki and its initiatives, you can visit their website