Continuing a years-long tradition, the Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple will hold our annual Obon Festival on July 15-16, 2023. Obon, or “Gathering of Joy”, is a time where we all express our gratitude to loved ones who have passed on before us. Our Obon Festival is also an opportunity for everyone to come together and embrace our culture, religion and friendships. We expect hundreds of visitors from Southern California and beyond to attend this 2-day event featuring Bon Odori (Japanese folk dancing), Japanese and Asian cuisine and games for youths. As this is also one of our key fundraising activities, we hold an Opportunity Drawing and Silent Auction throughout the weekend.