Obon is a Japanese celebration of one’s ancestors. Each August, people return to their hometowns to remember the dead and reunite with loved ones. Obon is celebrated with regional dances called bon odori along with dances and other cultural celebrations.

The Philadelphia Obon Festival includes bon odori folk dances with Seabrook Minyo Dance Group, and taiko drumming performances by KyoDaiko, Hoh Daiko (Seabrook Buddhist Temple) and Casual Fifth. Attendees can also enjoy arts and crafts, a yukata dressing station, as well as a vendor market. The event will take place outside of Shofuso and is free and open to the public. Regular admission is required to visit Shofuso, and a separate ticket is required to participate in the Obon Lantern Lighting Ceremony.

In the event of inclement weather, Obon will be rescheduled to Sunday, August 14.

Schedule of Events

3:00 PM – Arts & Crafts and Vendor Market begin
4:00 PM – KyoDaiko performance
4:30 PM – Bon odori
5:00 PM – Hoh Daiko performance
5:20 PM – Bon odori
5:45 PM – Casual Fifth performance
6:20 PM – Bon odori
6:45 PM – Taiko Final Performance

We’re having a Bon Odori Practice Day on July 30: click here to learn more and save the date!

Obon Festival Sponsors:
Click the sponsor icons to learn more.