#Japan #Hitachinaka #LuckyFes #LuckyFM #TuneCore Japan

LuckyFes'26: A Chance for Artists to Shine

LuckyFM Ibaraki, based in Mito City, is hosting an exciting audition titled "Battle to LuckyFes'26". This event gives independent artists the opportunity to perform at the highly anticipated LuckyFes'26 music festival, happening from August 8-11, 2026, at the beautiful Kairakuen Park in Hitachinaka City, Ibaraki prefecture. In collaboration with TuneCore Japan, the audition aims to highlight emerging talent and provide them with a platform to shine.

How It Works

The audition utilizes TuneCore Japan's well-established platform to gather original music submissions from independent artists. Interested musicians can submit their tracks starting February 9, 2026, at noon until March 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM. After the initial review of the submitted recordings, selected applicants will move on to video auditions, eventually leading to live performances in a Tokyo venue. Ultimately, three artists will earn the coveted chance to take the stage at LuckyFes'26. Additionally, a cash prize of 100,000 yen will be awarded to the winners.

The audition process will be promoted continuously on LuckyFM, ensuring that the journey of the artists reaching the festival is followed and highlighted. Artists successfully securing their spot at LuckyFes'26 will also appear on LuckyFM's programs before the festival, sharing their experiences and preparations with listeners.

Last Year's Success

Last year’s Battle to LuckyFes brought impressive results, with a staggering 1,328 submissions. The competition led to the selection of three artists — Yume no Kishimoto, Kiyoka Fukushima, and JUGEM — to perform at LuckyFes'25. Notably, Ashley, an artist who performed at LuckyFes'24, has also taken the role of a radio host for the Lucky Hip Hop program and subsequently appeared again at LuckyFes'25. This year’s audition promises to continue creating pathways for talented musicians, encouraging them to take part in LuckyFes'26 and leave their mark on the ever-evolving festival.

Audition Schedule

• - Music Submission Period: February 9 (Mon) 12:00 PM – March 1 (Sun) 11:59 PM
• - Video Audition: Schedule TBA
• - Live Venue Audition: June 7 (Sun), time TBA, at Shimokitazawa BASEMENTBAR

Ticket Information for LuckyFes'26

For those interested in attending the festival, LuckyFM has announced a limited early bird ticket sale for the four-day pass, with an exclusive price of 35,000 yen (tax included) for the first 200 tickets. Daily tickets will also be available at 14,000 yen (tax included), with free entry for children under elementary school age. Note that the early bird prices apply only to adult tickets; middle and high school tickets will be sold at regular rates, to be announced later.

Ticket Purchase Links

• - LuckyFM Ticket Sales

(Having a LuckyFM membership is required, which is free to register)

• - Sales End Date: By February 28, 2026, at 11:59 PM, or until sold out.

About LuckyFes'26

LuckyFes'26 will be a magnificent celebration of music, food, and art, co-hosted by LuckyFM and BARKS, featuring a lineup of talented artists and engaging content during the festival. It is set to be a must-attend event for music enthusiasts and an incredible opportunity for artists aiming to gain exposure and connect with fans.

LuckyFM operates as Ibaraki's only private radio station, covering FM frequencies 94.6 MHz and 88.1 MHz. Proudly hosting original programming under five core concepts — diversity in music, local majors, niche tops, news, and sports — LuckyFM plays a crucial role in promoting local talent and live events.

For More Inquiries: Please contact LuckyFM at the Public Relations Division, email: [email protected].