Obon Festival 2011

Participants in the Bon Odori dance

       It's summertime-- a time of relaxation and free time for most American teenagers, and a time of tradition and celebration for other cultures. One holiday that's unknown to most people outside of the Japanese community, the Obon festival, is celebrated annually during July. Specifically, the Obon festival is a celebration honoring deceased ancestors; a joyous occasion spent with family and friends. There are many fun, free activities to participate in at the festival, including dancing the Bon Odori, eating traditional Japanese food, carnival type-games, and dressing up in Kimonos. There's also a performance by trained "Taiko" drum players.
     So, if there isn't much for you to do this weekend, this festival is definitely worth checking out. The West Los Angeles Buddhist Temple is hosting an Obon festival this weekend on Saturday and Sunday (July 23rd-24th). On Saturday it's open from 4pm-10pm, and on Sunday it's open from 3pm-9pm. The West L.A. Buddhist Temple is located at 2003 Corinth Avenue, 90025. For more information on the festival, visit West LA Buddhist Temple