Obon お盆 (Lantern Festival) is a multi-day Buddhist holiday to honor the spirits of our ancestors. It is believed that they will annually visit the physical world. Obon was first introduced to Hawaiʻi in the late 19th century by Japanese immigrants working on the plantations.
The official dates for Obon vary by region, but will most likely be August 13 - 15 based on the lunar calendar. We celebrate Obon in Hawaiʻi from June through September. Check out our list of local bon dance spots. These events are typically fundraisers for a temple or organization.
On the first day of Obon, families will clean their ancestors’ graves, chant (or pray/reflect), and leave offerings such as flowers and food along with chōchin 提灯 (paper lanterns). Mukae-bon 迎え盆 (to welcome) is a ritual used to call spirits back home. Some people hang lanterns outside their homes, while others will light mukae-bi 迎え火 (welcoming fires).
Families with altars may make shōryō uma 精霊馬 (spirit horses) out of vegetables to give their ancestors comfort in travel. Cucumber horses will give ancestors speed as they return home, while eggplant cows slowly carry offerings as they depart.
The second day of Obon is dedicated to bon odori 盆踊り (bon dance), a traditional Japanese dance that has been practiced for over 600 years. Dances are performed in appreciation of our ancestors’ sacrifices. In Hawaiʻi, hatsubon 初盆 (first memorial service for those who have passed since the last obon season) is held before the bon dance.
Okuri-bon 送り盆 (to send off) is a ritual for the last day of Obon. Families will light a candle in a toro nagashi 灯籠流し (floating lantern) that is then placed in water to help our ancestors return to the spirit world. An okuribi 送り火 (ceremonial bonfire) may also be used. In Hawaiʻi, Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaiʻi is held in remembrance of those we miss.
Shop for Bon Dance items at the JCCH Gift Shop!
View the 2026 Obon Schedule
This schedule includes events on Oʻahu, the Big Island, Kauaʻi, Maui, Lānaʻi, and Molokaʻi. Please confirm details with individual temples before attending. Dates and times are subject to change.