It’s that time of year again: Obon!

Soh Daiko members are excitedly gearing up for this year’s Obon festivals, hosted by Ekoji Buddhist Temple, the New York Buddhist Church, and Seabrook Buddhist Temple.

First, on Saturday, July 9th, you can head down to Fairfax, VA to join the Ekoji Buddhist Temple in a full day of great food, traditional Japanese folk dancing, kids games, live Hawaiian music by the Aloha Boys, Japanese taiko drumming by Nen Daiko, temple tours, and an evening candle ceremony to remember and thank those who have come before us. Check out their website for more information!

Next, on Sunday, July 10th, the NYBC will host NYC’s 67th Annual Obon Dance Festival in Bryant Park (42nd St. & 6th Ave.). Among the dancing and festivities, Soh Daiko will be performing two short sets, first at 12:45pm, and then at 3:30pm. Please take a look at our Events Page for the full-day schedule of dancing and performances!

Finally, on Saturday, July 16th the Seabrook Buddhist Temple will host their Obon Festival in Seabrook, NJ. From 4:00pm – 9:00pm, you’ll be able to enjoy more dancing, more food, and more taiko! All three taiko groups from all three temples will come together to close out the season with a bang.

Obon is an annual Buddhist event intended to honor one’s ancestors. During this time, it is believed that the spirits of our ancestors return to this world to visit their relatives. Traditionally, lanterns (“obon,” in Japanese) are hung in front of one’s home to guide the spirits along their way.