The Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church (SACBC) invites all community members to their annual Festival of Obon on Saturday, Aug. 8.
Entertainment will include Obon dancing, featuring live music by San Jose Chidori Band. The nearly 20-member band has been performing since 1953.
There will be authentic Japanese food for sale at the festival. Meals can be pre-ordered at of****@***bc.org or 510.471.2581.
Obon, also referred to as Kangi-e, is a “joyous gathering with dharma dance.” Colorful yukata-clad dancers perform dances of joy, marking a memorial day honoring departed loved ones and offering thanks. This annual celebration expresses joy and gratitude to those who made our own lives possible.
In the weeks prior to the festival, there will be free Obon practice sessions for those looking to learn the dances or to brush up on their moves. These will start at 7 pm on Aug. 3, 5 and 6 and in the Sangha Hall at SACBC. Dance practices are optional.
On Sunday, Aug. 9, 10am, SACBC will hold its annual Buddhist Obon Spiritual Service for departed loved ones, given by Rev. Dr. Takashi Miyaji. Those who recently lost their loved ones within the past year are especially welcomed. We will be conducting a special service for them called Hatsubon (First Obon Service).
Obon Festival
Saturday, Aug. 8
Food Sales: 5pm
Obon Dance: 7pm
Southern Alameda County Buddhist Church

32975 Alvarado-Niles Rd., Union City
sacbc.org
