CRAIG T. KOJIMA / 2018
Sharon Kawatomari, dances with granddaughter, Sharlie, at Shinshu Kyokai. In Hawaii, there are bon festivals almost every weekend from June through September, with dancing, food and cultural activities.
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Our summer Obon schedule listing events across the state will be published May 26.
Bon, or Obon, is one of three major holiday seasons in Japan. Traditionally, lanterns are hung in front of homes to guide spirits, Obon dances (bon odori) are performed, ancestors’ graves are visited and food offerings are made at home altars and temples.
The annual festivals have evolved into more of a secular community event, and in Hawaii there are bon festivals almost every weekend from June through September, with dancing, food and cultural activities.
Groups wishing to publicize their Obon events should send an email with the time, date, address, contact information and other details to features@staradvertiser.com, with “Obon” in the subject line.
The deadline to submit information is Monday.