According to an article on Japan Today, the Yosakoi festival "originated in the city of Kochi in 1954 and, is a modern version of the traditional "awa odori" summer dance." The dance has changed over time by adapting to new ideas of the modern generation with dancers wearing bright colored costumes with unique designs and hairstyles. Check my blog for more photos etc ~ a-glimpse-of-japan-through-me.blogspot.com