There are two basic kinds of events -- individual and group. A running race is an example of an individual event. Group events, where students are divided into teams, include tug-of-war, ball-tossing games, and mock cavalry battles. Kids usually compete against those of the same grade, but there are also relay races between teams made up of kids from all grades.

Some schools also include non-competitive events like folk or traditional Japanese dancing. At the high-school level, students do more than just compete in sports events; cheering contests are often held in which each class makes up its own cheers, adding even more energy to this exciting day.