August 7, 2007 > OBON Festival OBON Festival Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church (SACBC) is pleased to announce its annual Obon Festival, Saturday, August 11, starting at 7:30 p.m. A food sale will begin at 5:30 p.m. In the Jodo-Shinshu tradition, the Obon service or "Kangi-e" is a "Dharma Gathering of Joy." Mid-August is called obon in Japan and one of the most important traditions for Japanese people. It is a period to pray for the souls of one's ancestors. Ancestral spirits are reunited with their families during obon. The tradition places an emphasis on joy and appreciation experienced in this life. Therefore, Obon dance is called a "Dance of Joy." The SACBC Obon Festival will feature dancing by members of the Church and community led by SACBC Church member, Mrs. Karen Suyama, and accompanied by The Chidori Band. They will dance to a selection of traditional and contemporary Japanese songs, dressed in kimonos and hapi coats. Intermission entertainment will be provided by the Chidori Band. Admission and parking are free and the public is welcome to attend (and encouraged to participate!). All activities will be held in the Church Sangha Hall, located at 32975 Alvarado-Niles Road in Union City. For more information, please contact the Church office at 510-471-2581, or visit our website at: www.sacbc.org. SACBC Obon Festival Saturday, August 11 5:30 p.m. (Food Sales), 7:30 p.m. (Dance) Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church Sangha Hall 32975 Alvarado-Niles Road, Union City (510) 471-2581 sacbc@sbcglobal.net www.sacbc.org Open to the General Public Free Parking and Admission