Mendocino Obon Festival

Japanese people believe the spirits of ancestors and the departed loved ones come home in the middle of August each year.  Obon is the period that we welcome their return and celebrate the time together once again.

We honor our ancestral heritage, revisit the precious memories with loved ones, and reconnect with family, friends, and community.  The farewell dancing, “Bon Odori,” a circle dance with easy moves, is for everyone to join.  Bon Odori is a gift from the living to the deceased. Join us in celebration for an afternoon of art activities, cultural presentations, Japanese food, as well as traditional Japanese music and dance.