On Saturday July 19th Enmanji Temple will host Obon Odori celebration. This community outdoor dance honors those who have passed, and return once a year to enjoy the earthly pleasures. Traditionally, summer festivals are held throughout Japan in the Temple grounds during the months of July and August to celebrate Obon Odori.
Preceding Obon on Saturday July 19th will be dance practices for anyone interested in participating. The practices will be from Tuesday, July 15th through Friday, July 18th from 7-9PM each evening and will take place at Enmanji Memorial Hall. This event is open to the public and free.
Udon noodleswith a rich earthy broth and freshly bakedimagawa yaki a sweeten bean filled pastry will be available for sale beginning at 7PM.
Cultural dress returns with this annual event, women, men and children wear kimonos and cooler cotton yukata,or happi coats. The public is encouraged to also dress-up and take pictures. If you require assistance tying your obi, please arrive early as community member will be able to assist. Similar Bay Area events will be held in San Francisco, San Mateo, Palo Alto, Mt View, Union City, Alameda, Oakland and the largest being held in San Jose hosting several thousand dancers with two evenings of dancing.
When: Saturday, July 19, 2014
Time: 7 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Where: Enmanji Buddhist Temple, 1200 Gravenstein Hwy. So. Sebastopol
Share photos from all celebrations to @bayareaproud #Obon2014
