The San Fernando Valley Hongwanji Buddhist Temple Obon is one of the largest Buddhist gatherings in the City of Los Angeles. In 2017, we celebrate our 94th Obon Festival!

Attendees can participate in the tradition of Japanese Obon Odori dancing and enjoy other cultural and ethnic experiences such as taiko drum performances, Japanese calligraphy and doll exhibits, and a variety of tasty ethnic foods.

Dancers of all ages in colorful kimono and happi coats perform traditional Japanese folk dances celebrating the Buddhist “Festival of Joy,” which started centuries ago as a religious custom to remember and express gratitude to deceased loved ones. All attendees are encouraged to join the simple and fun dances, led by teachers and the sound of rhythmic music.

Highlighting the festival are ethnic Japanese and American foods for sale, including chicken teriyaki, udon noodles, sushi, spam musubi, refreshing shave ice, delicious baked goods, and many other delectable items.

Enjoy family carnival games and prizes, enter our raffle for a chance to win up to $1000, and cool off in our Bingo Hall with its Buddhist bookstore and flea market for Japanese goods and apparel.

Obon Festival
June 24 – 25, 2017
Saturday: 4:30 pm – 10:00 pm
Sunday: 4:30 pm – 9:00 pm

Bon Odori Dancing
Saturday: 7:00 pm
Sunday: 6:30 pm

Taiko Drum Performances
Saturday: San Fernando Valley Taiko
Sunday: West Los Angeles Buddhist Temple Taiko