Download printable poster

Bon Dance 2025!!
Friday and Saturday, June 27-28
6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. both nights

June means the start of Obon festival time! In Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, Obon is characterized as “kangi-e” or joyful gathering. It is a festive occasion to celebrate all that we have as a living beings.

Bon Dance gives us a chance to express our gratitude to our ancestors, teachers and friends, to show appreciation to them and to express how fortunate we are to be able to listen to the Buddha’s teachings. We celebrate the opportunity that we have to follow the teachings and to embrace them in our daily lives.

Something for Everyone!

• Dancing
• Taiko drumming at 6 p.m. to kick off the event


Yukata or Happi Coats are the recommended attire. However, everyone is welcomed to participate as they are!

• Fellowship
• Choba Booth: Support the temple, honor your ancestors, purchase Bon Dance towels
• Bontique shop in our Social Hall
• Professional photos (kimonos & assistance dressing provided!)
• Temple tours (from main, upper-level sanctuary or hondo — 7PM, 8PM, 9PM)
• “Fishing” game
• A variety of food offerings
  
  Show/Hide Food Offerings

  BBQ plate
  Saimin
  Teri Burger
  Chili and Rice
  Spam Musubi
  Nachos
  Fried Noodles (Sat. only)
  Soy Beans
  Andagi (Sat. only)
  Shave Ice
  Waffle Dog
  Soft Drinks and Water

Dance Practices

There will be two practices the week of the Bon Dance.

• Tuesday, June 24, 7:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, June 25, 7:30 p.m.

Practices will be outside, weather permitting, or in the Social Hall. Practices go till 9 or 9:30 p.m.

Parking

Overflow parking available at Hongwanji Mission School, Soto Mission (Saturday only), and Kawananakoa Middle School. See a full-size parking map.

How about the bus?
TheBus Route #6 stops right at the temple, Lusitana St. & Milo Lane! (See the route map.)

Our popular Bon Dance towels will be available for purchase!