#Japan #Kobe #COCOLON #Family Concert

Family Concert for Everyone: A Musical Experience in Kobe

On September 19, 2026, a unique family concert titled "Family Concert for All Ages" will take place at Arima Hall in Kobe's Kita Ward, organized by COCOLON. This concert holds special importance as it caters to families with severely disabled children and those in need of medical care, creating a welcoming environment where every family member can enjoy music together.

Following a successful first installment earlier this year in Kobe, this second event expands its reach to cater even more families, ensuring everyone can partake in the joy of music. Notably, this concert is not just any musical gathering; it is designed particularly to accommodate children with severe disabilities and their siblings, as well as their families, wherein they can feel comfortable moving around, vocalizing, or even entering and exiting as needed without any concern.

Addressing Social Challenges

In a study conducted by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 2019, it was highlighted that a staggering 65.3% of families caring for children requiring medical support found it exceedingly challenging to venture out with their children. The concert aims to address these difficulties by offering necessary facilities such as changing beds for older children, ensuring power supply for medical devices, and providing adequate supervision for siblings—all crucial elements that often prevent families from attending public events.

COCOLON, the operational body behind this concert, is committed to creating safe spaces for families with severe disabilities, allowing them the experience of fun outings without the apprehension that typically surrounds such events. They organize several inclusive events nationwide that foster communal ties, provide opportunities for musical enjoyment, and facilitate interactions among families.

Community Collaboration in Kobe

This concert has been co-planned with the children's developmental support facility, “Kodomo Day Hareiro,” in Kobe, which enhances community collaboration and helps to attract a greater number of attending families.

Arima Hall, the event venue, is particularly accessible. It features spacious areas for wheelchairs and strollers, equipped changing spaces, and easy parking options, making it a perfect environment for families with severely disabled children and those in need of additional medical care. Additionally, the hall incorporates seating arrangements that allow families to relax and enjoy the concert at their own pace, featuring mats for children to lie down on alongside fixed seating for parents.

A Unique Musical Experience

This concert is designed with careful attention to the needs of children with severe disabilities. Attendees can expect the following:

1. Freedom to Express: It embraces all forms of participation. Whether it’s moving around, expressing through sounds, or needing to step in and out of the venue, everyone is welcome to join comfortably.

2. Enabling Environment: Matt seating areas allow children to lie down while enjoying the performances. The venue is also equipped with universal changing beds to accommodate older children.

3. Engaging Performances: Professional musicians and a well-known children’s music personality will perform popular songs, including an exciting improvisation request segment.

4. Meet Haruban: The beloved Hyogo Prefecture mascot, Haruban, will join in on the fun, making it a memorable event through interactions with the children.

Event Details

• - Event Title: Family Concert for Ages 0 and Up
• - Date & Time: September 19, 2026, with two sessions at 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM
• - Location: Arima Hall in Kobe
• - Capacity: Each session will accommodate 30 families, totaling 120 participants.
• - Admission Fees: Members will pay 500 yen for adults and free for children; general admission is 1500 yen for adults and 500 yen for children.

Join Us!

We anticipate that this concert will further strengthen community ties among families while providing a joyful escape filled with music. COCOLON extends its heartfelt gratitude to all the contributing partners and the families who will be a part of this cherished experience. We look forward to welcoming everyone for a delightful time filled with music and connection!

For applications and further inquiries, visit the COCOLON online site or contact via email at [email protected].