The novel coronavirus pandemic led to the cancellation of the festival for the past two years, so the events were held online instead. This year's version did not provide food and drink booths, popular stops at past festivals, due to COVID-19 concerns. Among the sculptures on display are ones of major league slugger and pitcher Shohei Ohtani and Tsuyoshi Shinjo, manager of the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters. The sculptures are illuminated at night. The festival continues until Feb. 11.