Hundreds of people danced under the light of paper lanterns at the final bon dance of the season August 6 at Kapa‘a Hongwanji Mission. The cloudy evening marked the end of nine bon dances celebrated on Kaua‘i, which was hosted
Hundreds of people danced under the light of paper lanterns at the final bon dance of the season August 6 at Kapa‘a Hongwanji Mission. The cloudy evening marked the end of nine bon dances celebrated on Kaua‘i, which was hosted by the Kaua‘i Buddhist Council.
Bon dance is rooted in a Buddhist tradition. The dance is a way to remember ancestors who have passed away and their sacrifices. Adults and keiki alike danced to the sounds of beating drums Saturday evening. They lined up in a circle around a wooden yagura, while hundreds of people sat on lawn chairs and picnic blankets to watch.
Away from the dancer, keiki tried their hand at a few carnival games and attendees feasted on local grinds.
Those who may have missed this season’s bon dance have one more shot: Mahelona Hospital will host a bon dance Aug. 18 in its courtyard.
