Venice Buddhist Temple Obon Festival 2026

The Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple Obon Festival takes place July 18–19, 2026 in Venice, California — one of the most atmospheric Obon settings in Southern California, held in the heart of a neighborhood with deep Japanese American history.

Venice's Obon has a particular character shaped by its Westside location and the demographic mix of the surrounding community. The Bon Odori dancing draws long-time temple families alongside newer community members and curious visitors from across Los Angeles. The dances are taught informally — you can join at any point, follow the person in front of you, and find yourself fully inside the tradition within two songs.

The festival spans two evenings. Traditional Bon Odori circles form around the yagura as dusk falls, accompanied by live Taiko drumming and recorded Obon music. Food booths run the full gamut of Japanese American festival cuisine: fresh grilled chicken, soba noodles, teriyaki, shave ice with azuki beans, and seasonal mochi.

Venice Hongwanji is located near Lincoln Blvd in Venice. Street parking in the surrounding neighborhood. The festival is free; food and booths are individually priced. Yukata rentals and lessons are sometimes available at the temple for first-time visitors who want to participate in the dancing fully dressed.