Friday June 16, 2023 at 5-10 pm
Saturday, June 17, 2023 at 5-10 pm
Kauai Soto Zen Temple Zenshuji | 1-3500 Kaumualii Hwy, Hanapepe (Kauai) 96816 | 808-346-4650
Obon is the celebration in the Buddhist culture in the celebration of life and the ancestors who have passed with Obon dancing! The history of Obon started when Budda’s disciple, Maha Maudgalyayan (Mokuren) had special powers to see his mother’s spirit who had just passed. Mokuren could see that his Mom’s spirit was suffering in the Realm of Hungry Ghosts and Budda suggested that he make offerings to the Buddhist monks so his mother’s spirit would be released. Mokuren was so happy when her spirit was released he started to dance. This dance became the “Obon Dance!”
The Soto Zen Bon Festival has over 500 colorful lanterns hanging from the yagura, with Japanese dancing, lively taiko drums keeping the beat as everyone dances in their kimonos, yukatas and happi coats! The theme is “Let’s Bon Dance!” as everyone gets together to reunite with friends and family members as they honor the loved ones who have passed. There will lots of food and dancing so come celebrate the obon festival!
