Pasadena Buddhist Church
2005 Obon Festival

Pasadena Buddhist Temple had their annual Obon festival July 16-17, 2005.

Obon honors the memory of relatives and friends who have passed away. Special service will be held for families that have lost a loved one since the last obon on Saturday the 16th.

Obon comes from the story of Maudgalyana, a disciple of the Buddha, who sees his mother suffering in "hell". Maudgalyana goes to the Buddha for advice and is instructed to make a gift (a vegetarian meal) to his fellow monks. He did so, and immediately his mother is saved from the miseries of hell. Overjoyed, he and his fellow monks clapped their hands and danced in joy. Obon, therefore, is an occasion for rejoicing in liberating others and ourselves from suffering.

Food booths served BBQ chicken teriyaki, chow mein, sushi, and snow cones. A few game booths will help entertain the youngsters. Festivities begin at 5:00 and end each evening at 9:00.

Each evening, dancers from around the Southland gathered around the yagura and danced the traditional Obon Odori (dances). Dancing is scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm each evening. Obon odori is to dance for joy. Everyone is invited to join in to "just dance" and be accepted as we are.

The Pasadena is located at 1993 Glen Avenue in Pasadena, California 91103.

For more information via the internet, send email to Jeannie.

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This is the schedule of events for 2005:

Saturday - July 16th

5:00-5:30 Kyudo Demonstration

5:30-6:30 Aikido and Iaido Demonstration

6:30 - 7:00 Judo Demonstration

7:00 Bon Odori led by Julie Toyama and Sandy Watson. Everyone welcome to participate!

8:00 Taiko Performance by L.A. Matsuri Taiko

4:45 - 5:30 Tea Ceremony in the Tea House

5:30 - 6:00 Kendo Demonstration

6:00 - 6:30 Qi Gong

6:30 Taiko Performance by Kodama Taiko

7:00 Bon Odori led by Julie Toyama and Sandy Watson. Everyone welcome to participate!

Bonsai of local artists will be on display