If you’re planning a Hawaii vacation between May and August in 2023, don’t miss out on one of the top-pick Hawaii festivals – the Bon Dance. This Japanese Buddhist tradition, which honors the spirits of ancestors, has been celebrated for over 500 years and is a unique cultural activity for the entire family.
The Significance of Bon Dance
Bon Dance, or Obon, is a celebration of life and an honoring of ancestors. In Hawaii, each island hosts outdoor Bon Dance celebrations at local Hongwanji (Buddhist temples) or parks. The festival is marked by dance participants, musicians, including taiko drummers, and hundreds of beautiful hanging lamps.
The Return of Bon Dance Festival in Hawaii
After a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, Bon Dance festivals returned to most islands last summer, and there will be even more events this year. The festival is when the spirits of ancestors return to be with family and friends. At the end of the Obon season, floating lanterns are traditionally put into rivers, lakes, and seas to guide the spirits back into their world.
The Bon Dance Experience
At a Bon Dance festival, you can enjoy traditional Japanese food booths, crafts, and more. Many dancers wear traditional kimonos, but that isn’t a requirement, and newcomers are most welcome. The circular dances take place around an outdoor Yagura platform.
Bon Dance Across the Islands
Each island in Hawaii has its own Bon Dance celebrations, each at a different location. From Oahu to Kauai, Maui, Big Island, Lanai, and Molokai, the Bon Dance season is a vibrant and culturally rich time to visit Hawaii.
In conclusion, the Bon Dance festival is a must-see cultural experience for anyone visiting Hawaii during the summer months. It’s a celebration of life, an honoring of ancestors, and a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.
