Free Bon Odori Festival in Seattle

Bon Odori is a traditional summer festival to honor ancestors who have passed on, remember and appreciate all they have done for us, and celebrate their ongoing presence in the lives we enjoy today. Also known as Obon, the festival is an official Seafair event held at the Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple. The main event is traditional music and dancing in the street in a giant oval. Many festival goers dress in Japanese kimono, yukata, or happi coats. The event also features Japanese food booths and refreshment, taiko and martial arts performances, and craft exhibits and demonstrations. Hours: Saturday 4:00 – 10:00pm, Sunday 3:00 – 8:00pm. Get more information about Seafair history and events.