The Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple is holding our annual Obon Festival on July 20-21, 2019.  Obon, or "Gathering of Joy", is a time to express our gratitude to loved ones who have passed on before us.  The Festival is also one of our most important fundraisers, which includes sales of Japanese and Asian cuisine (sushi, won ton, chicken teriyaki), games for youths, a Japanese themed boutique, and a Drawing and Silent Auction.  The showcase event for the weekend is our "Obon Odori" (Japanese folk dancing).  We expect over 2,500 visitors from Southern California and beyond to attend this 2-day event.