Oregon Buddhist Temple's Obonfest 2008 was held on Saturday August 2, 2008. It was a huge success and a great time was had by all. We look forward to seeing you at next year's festival.

We are grateful for all the many people, too numerous to name individually, who worked so hard to make this year's Obon the fun and successful event it was. Thank you one and all.

Schedule of Events

Obon is an annual Japanese festival commemorating one's ancestors.

Each year we prepare for our OBONFEST, by practicing the dances that close the festival. It is an all-comers dance, so everyone is invited to join in the fun. It can be more enjoyable if you know the dances, and the practices themselves are great.

We are fortunate to have the wonderful Sahomi Tachibana to teach us the dances and lead the practices. On Tuesday and Thursday evenings beginning on July 15, 2008 and running for 3 weeks until July 31, 2008, we learn the history of each dance, practice the choreography, and enjoy some low impact exercise. Practices are held at the temple and start at 7 p.m. and go until 9 p.m.  Great friendships are made, and everyone has a delightful time.

Lessons are free and all are welcome. No experience is necessary. Come join us for one or all of the practices, kick up your heels, and prepare for OBON. Don't worry if you can't get to the practices, still plan on dancing with us at the festival. Just dance!

View Pictures of a dance lesson/practice session.