BonPOP: Japanese Obon Festival in SF Botanical Gardens

Submitted by the Event Organizer

BonPOP, a reimagined Obon Odori, welcomes a local, city-wide and regional audience to immerse themselves in the Japanese tradition of honoring ancestors through dance, song, and rituals accessible to all regardless of religion, faith, ethnicity, and cultural beliefs. The festival features a vibrant blend of taiko drumming, live folk music, and Bon Odori dancing showcasing the rich heritage and talent of our local Japantown artists and cultural practitioners.

A 500-year-old ceremonial tradition, Obon is celebrated throughout Japan today. Residents travel to their family homes to honor their ancestors during Obon season. Originating from the Chinese Ghost Festival of Buddhist and Taoist nature, the Japan Obon Festival follows the idea that during the month of August, those in the living realm remember and remember and honor past ancestors. Family rituals may include visits to the local temple, cleaning of ancestral graves, lighting of fire and lanterns, and reunions with loved ones enjoying ceremonial foods and family traditions.

Newly renovated in 2019, the Celebration Garden is our largest and most versatile outdoor venue with an amazing array of iconic plants from throughout the Botanical Garden that includes Mesoamerican ferns, Southeast Asian and South American palms and African impatiens. Conveniently located by the Main Gate, this expansive manicured garden can accommodate a variety of events including intimate ceremonies by the Thomas Church Pavilion, elegant tented receptions on the large green lawn, while also facilitating a private and casual atmosphere for company picnics or team-building retreats. 

Disclaimer: Please double check event information with the event organizer as events can be canceled, details can change after they are added to our calendar, and errors do occur.