Obon dancing at Pasadena Obon Festival in 2015 (Photo – Staff)
Pasadena Buddhist Temple’s annual Obon Festival returns on Saturday, July 18, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm, celebrating joy and community.
By Melanie Hooks
Obon is a Buddhist observance traditionally celebrated in Mahayana Buddhist countries, including China, Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. At the heart of the festival is Bon Odori, a communal dance that celebrates joy. Everyone is invited to join in, dance, and be welcomed just as they are.
This year’s festival will feature food, cultural exhibitions, and live music.
Festival favorites including chirashi, beef chow mein, shave ice, and matsuri fare will be available throughout the evening. Scheduled performances include the ABAsonics Band, playing oldies favorites, at 4:45 pm; LA Taiko Ichiza at 5:45 pm; and Bon Dancing beginning at 6:30 pm.
Though more modest in scale than in previous years, the festival’s return, on the edge of the Eaton Fire-affected area, stands as a hopeful symbol of community resilience.
Dance on!
Pasadena Obon Festival Saturday, July 18, 2026 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm Location Pasadena Buddhist Temple 1993 Glen Ave. Pasadena, CA 91103 Free.
Leave a Reply