Stockton Buddhist Temple

The Stockton Buddhist Temple presents its annual Bon Odori and Cultural Bazaar beginning on July 24 at 7 p.m., with the traditional Bon Odori dance, and is followed by the cultural arts and food bazaar on July 31 and Aug. 1, at the temple grounds located on 2820 Shimizu Drive in Stockton.

The Public is invited to share in this traditional event that begins with the traditional Bon Odori Festival dance at 7 p.m. on Sunday, July 24. The Bon Odori, better known as Obon is the Buddhist event commemorating one’s ancestors. It is believed that each year during Obon, the ancestors’ spirits return to this world in order to visit their relatives. This Buddhist festival has evolved into a family reunion holiday during which people from outside cities return to their hometowns and visit and give remembrance to those departed.

Today, participants continue this custom as they dance in traditional Japanese dress, including kimonos, yukatas, and happi coats. The dances may include the use of fans, castanets, and recall both daily life in Japan and remembrance of ancestors.

The second part of the event is the exciting Cultural festival that will be on Saturday, July 31 through Sunday, Aug. 1, starting at 11 a.m. and ending at 9 p.m. each day. Performances by community performance groups including Stockton Bukkyo Taiko and Sacramento Taiko groups as well as traditional dance from local dance groups and martial arts demonstrations will be done throughout the day. This takes place in our Social Hall along with a variety of Japanese crafts for sale and display.

The traditional “taste of Japan” brings traditional favorites of teriyaki chicken, kushiyaki, traditional sushi, and hot udon, all served both indoor and outside. Outside entertainment includes our variety of games for children and adults. Temple tours will also be given along with our farmer’s market and plant sale.

The public is encouraged come out and celebrate.

For more information, please contact the Stockton Buddhist Temple office at: (209) 466-6701 or online at www.stocktonbuddhisttemple.org. Proceeds will benefit the Temple community events.