Ultimate Guide to Obon Festivals on Oahu: 2026
Everything you need to know about Oahu's 2026 Obon season, including beginner tips, cultural traditions, and a complete festival schedule.
The 2026 Obon season is officially underway and will run June through September. The Obon festival, a captivating Japanese Buddhist celebration, has become an integral part of Hawaii's cultural tapestry. It is a time when communities gather to honor ancestors, enjoy traditional music and dance, and create lasting memories.
If you're a Hawaii resident or visitor eager to dive into this enchanting event, we have you covered with our ultimate guide to Obon Festivals in 2026. From essential tips for beginners to a comprehensive schedule of Obon dances on Oahu, you won't miss a beat.
Key Takeaway
Obon festivals are among Hawaii's most beloved cultural traditions, welcoming residents and visitors alike to celebrate community, honor ancestors, enjoy Japanese food and entertainment, and participate in Bon dancing throughout the summer.
What is Obon and Bon Dancing?
Obon is a Japanese Buddhist custom that commemorates one's ancestors. According to Buddhist belief, during this time, ancestral spirits return to visit their families. The festival features lively Bon dancing, which expresses gratitude and welcomes the spirits.
Dancers, clad in colorful yukata (traditional summer kimono), gracefully move to the rhythm of taiko drums and other traditional instruments. Today, Obon festivals throughout Hawaii bring together people of all backgrounds to celebrate culture, remembrance, and community.
Tips for Beginners
Dress the Part
Embrace the spirit of Obon by wearing a yukata or comfortable clothing. Many shops in Hawaii offer rentals so you can dress authentically.
Join the Workshops
Before the festival, workshops are often held to teach the basics of Bon dancing. Participating in these workshops can boost your confidence and make the event even more enjoyable.
Explore the Food Stalls
Indulge in delicious Japanese cuisine from festival food booths. From yakisoba to takoyaki, there is no shortage of tasty options.
Respectful Observance
Obon is a deeply meaningful event for many families. Show respect by observing traditions and customs, such as bowing before and after dancing.
What to Bring
Cash • Water Bottle • Comfortable Shoes • Light Jacket
Know Before You Go
- Most events are free
- Bring cash
- Arrive early for parking
- Comfortable shoes recommended
- Everyone is welcome to dance
Schedule of Obon Dances on Oahu in 2026
June 2026
Hawaii's Plantation Village
94-695 Waipahu St., Waipahu, HI
Phone: 808-677-0110
hawaiiplantationvillage.org
Pan-Pacific Festival
Kalākaua Ave., Honolulu, HI
panpacificfestival.org
Wahiawa Hongwanji Mission
1067 California Ave., Wahiawa, HI
Phone: 808-622-4320
wahiawashinbuddists.org
Ewa Hongwanji Mission
91-1133 Renton Road, Ewa Beach, HI
Phone: 808-681-5222
sites.google.com/view/ewa-buddhist-temple/home
Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin
1727 Pali Highway, Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-536-7044
hawaiibetsuin.org
July 2026
Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest
Washington Middle School
1633 S King St., Honolulu, HI
moiliilisummerfesthi.com
Waipahu Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
94-821 Kuhaulua St., Waipahu, HI
Phone: 808-677-4221
waipahuhongwanji.org
Haleiwa Shingon Mission
66-469 Pa'ala'a Rd., Haleiwa, HI
Phone: 808-637-4423
Rissho Kosei-kai Buddhist Church of Hawaii
2280 Auhuhu St., Pearl City, HI
Phone: 808-455-3212
rkhawaii.org
Koboji Shingon Mission
1223-B North School St., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-841-7033
koboji.org
Higashi Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii
1685 Alaneo St., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-531-9088
betsuin.hhbt-hi.org
Windward Buddhist Temple
268A Ku'ulei Road, Kailua, HI
windwardbuddhisttemple.org
Wahiawā Ryusenji-Soto Mission
164 California Ave., Wahiawa, HI
Phone: 808-622-1429
Shinshu Kyokai Mission
1631 S. Beretania St., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-973-0150
shinshukyokai.org
Jikoen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
1731 N. School St., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-845-3422
jikoenhongwanji.org
Palolo Higashi Hongwanji
1641 Palolo Ave., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-732-1491
Aiea Hongwanji
99-186 Puakala St., Aiea, HI
Phone: 808-487-2626
aieabuddhisttemple.org
Haleiwa Jodo Mission
66-279 Haleiwa Road A, Haleiwa, HI
Phone: 808-637-4382
hawaiijodo.net
August 2026
Waipahu Soto Zen Temple Taiyoji
94-413 Waipahu St., Waipahu, HI
Phone: 808-671-3103
waipahutaiyoji.com
Soto Mission of Aiea–Taiheiji
99-045 Kauhale St., Aiea, HI
Phone: 808-488-6794
sotomission.com
Pearl City Hongwanji Mission
858 2nd St., Pearl City, HI
Phone: 808-455-1680
pearlcityhongwanji.com
Soto Mission of Hawaii
1708 Nuuanu Ave., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-537-9409
sotomission.org
Mililani Hongwanji
95-257 Kaloapau St., Mililani, HI
Phone: 808-625-0925
mililanihongwanji.org
Jodo Mission of Hawaii
1429 Makiki St., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-949-3995
jodo.us
Autumn Matsuri by Senwa Kai at Pālama Settlement
810 N Vineyard Blvd., Kalihi-Pālama, HI
Phone: 808-848-2500
Shingon Mission of Hawaii
915 Sheridan St., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-941-5663
shingonshuhawaii.com
September 2026
Okinawan Festival at Hawaii Convention Center
1801 Kalākaua Ave., Honolulu, HI
Phone: 808-676-5400
okinawanfestival.com
Megabon at Leeward Community College
96-045 Ala Ike, Pearl City, HI
megabonhawaii.com
Autumn Okinawan Dance Matsuri at Hawai'i Okinawa Center
94-587 Uke'e St., Waipahu, HI
Phone: 808-676-5400
huoa.org
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know how to Bon dance?
Not at all. Most dances are beginner-friendly, and experienced dancers are usually happy to help newcomers learn the steps.
Are Obon festivals free to attend?
Most Obon festivals are free, though donations are appreciated and food and merchandise purchases support the hosting organizations.
Can visitors participate?
Absolutely. Obon festivals welcome residents and visitors of all backgrounds.
Beyond Obon: Explore Oahu Neighborhoods
Hawaii Kai
Mililani
North Shore
Experience One of Hawaii's Most Beloved Summer Traditions
Whether you're attending your first Bon dance or continuing a family tradition, Oahu's Obon season offers a meaningful way to connect with Hawaii's rich cultural heritage.
One of the things that makes Hawaii special is the way cultural traditions remain woven into everyday life. From neighborhood bon dances to community festivals, these events bring generations together and help preserve the values and traditions that shape our island communities.
At Locations, we believe that understanding a neighborhood goes beyond homes and real estate. It includes the traditions, events, and connections that make each community unique.
Disclaimer: Dates and times are subject to change. Always confirm details directly with the hosting temple or organization before attending. Schedule sourced from the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii and updated June 2, 2026.
