BonPOP: Japanese Obon Festival in SF Botanical Gardens

Submitted by the Event Organizer

We’re excited to welcome you back for 2026!

KOHO and Gardens of Golden Gate Park are excited to present the fifth annual KOHO BonPop community Bon Odori festival on Sunday, August 30, 2026 at the San Francisco Botanical Gardens Fountain Plaza.

Event Schedule:

• 2-4 pm: Vendors & Activities
• 4-6 pm: Bon Odori Dancing

BonPOP, a reimagined Bon Odori (ancestral dance festival), 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.

RSVP for BonPOP 2026 Today!

BonPOP is included with admission to the Gardens. Admission to the Gardens is FREE for San Francisco residents, children ages 4 and under, and those qualifying for the Museums for All program, Gardens members, and Veterans. Photo ID proof is required for the proof of free admission. Tickets can be purchased at the gate for non-SF residents.

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.