Nishime is served not only as an everyday meal but also for feasts served at occasions such as the Obon festival (Festival of the Dead or Buddhist All Soul's Day), New Year's holidays, seasonal festivals and other festivals where many people are assembled and guests are welcomed with food.
日常の食事において供されるほか、盆や正月、節句や祭りなどの、人が多く参集する際のふるまい・もてなし料理としても供される。