BonPOP, a reimagined Obon Odori Japantown event, welcomes a local, city-wide and regional audience to immerse themselves in the long-standing Japanese tradition of honoring ancestors through dance, song and rituals accessible to all regardless of religion, faith, ethnicity, and cultural beliefs. The festival features a vibrant blend of taiko drumming, live folk music, and Bon Odori dancing showcasing the rich heritage and talent of our local Japantown artists, and cultural practitioners.
A 500 year old ceremonial tradition, Obon is celebrated throughout Japan today. Residents travel to their family homes to honor their ancestors during Obon season. Originating from the Chinese Ghost Festival of Buddhist and Taoist nature, the Japan Obon Festival follows the idea that during the month of August, those in the living realm remember and remember and honor past ancestors. Family rituals may include visits to the local temple, the cleaning of ancestral graves, the lighting of fire and lanterns, and reunions with loved ones enjoying ceremonial foods and family traditions.
*Memorial Lanterns!*
We will be honoring past loved ones by hanging Memorial Tags from Lanterns above and around the Peace Plaza. If you would like to hang a tag in memory of a loved one that has passed on, please click the button below.
Your donations will help us continue to bring our community together and make a difference in Japantown.
Yukata Dressing Station!
Bring Friends and Family, come early and shop, and bring your own Yukata, Obi, and Accessories!
The dancer leaders will help you get dressed!
4:30 - 5:30p at the Japantown Visitor’s Center - East Mall 2nd Floor!