The 15th day of the eighth month on the lunar calendar is the month to view the brightest full moon of the year.
People enjoy eating, dancing, and singing under the bright moonlight.
Although the importance of the prayer ceremonies has lessened, parties under the moon are still a popular social activity. During the full moon week, many social groups from work places, classmates from schools, and neighbors enjoy partying in a natural environment. They compete to find the best site to observe the full moon. The people of Yaeyama gather at the top of a hill and hold singing competitions under the moon. The song, gTubaruma, h reflecting the simplicity of island life, characterizes the harmony between people and nature.