Bon Dances & Obon Festivals 2026 on Oahu
IT’S BON DANCE SEASON 2026 ON OAHU!
Click on the links below to learn more about individual Bon Dances and Festivals taking place on Oahu in 2025.
JUNE 6, 2026
Obon Dance Workshop presented by Hawaii State Library
JUNE 6, 2026
36th Annual Obon Celebration at Hawaii Plantation Village
JUNE 12, 2026
Bon Dance at Pan-Pacific Festival Hoolaulea
JUNE 12, 2026
Bon Dance at Wahiawa Hongwanji
JUNE 13, 2026
Bon Dance at Wahiawa Hongwanji
JUNE 20, 2026
Bon Dance at Ewa Hongwanji Mission
JUNE 26, 2026
Bon Dance at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin
JUNE 27, 2026
Bon Dance at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin
JULY 4, 2026
Bon Dance at Waipahu Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
JULY 4, 2026
13th Annual Moiliili Summer Fest & Bon Dance
JULY 10, 2026
Obon Bon Dance at Rissho Kosei-kai Buddhist Church of Hawaii
Bon Dance at Haleiwa Shingon Mission
Bon Dance at Koboji Shingon Mission
Bon Dance at Higashi Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin
JULY 11, 2026
Obon Bon Dance at Rissho Kosei-kai Buddhist Church of Hawaii
Bon Dance at Haleiwa Shingon Mission
Bon Dance at Koboji Shingon Mission
Bon Dance at Higashi Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin
Bon Dance at Windward Buddhist Temple
JULY 17, 2026
Bon Dance at Shinshu Kyokai Mission
Bon Dance at Wahiawa Ryusenji Soto Mission
Bon Dance at Haleiwa Jodo Mission
JULY 18, 2026
Bon Dance at Jikoen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
Bon Dance at Wahiawa Ryusenji Soto Mission
Bon Dance at Shinshu Kyokai Mission
Bon Dance at Haleiwa Jodo Mission
JULY 24, 2026
JULY 25, 2026
JULY 31, 2026
Bon Dance at Waipahu Soto Zen Temple Taiyoji
AUGUST 1, 2026
Bon Dance at Waipahu Soto Zen Temple Taiyoji
AUGUST 7, 2026
Bon Dance at Waipahu Soto Mission of Aiea
AUGUST 8, 2026
Bon Dance at Waipahu Soto Mission of Aiea
SEPTEMBER 5, 2026
SEPTEMBER 12, 2026
4th Annual Megabon
More bon dance dates to come.
4th Annual Megabon
Come on down to the 4th Annual Megabon – Hawaiʻi’s Biggest Bon Dance.
Want to beat the crowds? Early Access and VIP ticket holders will be able to enter, shop, and enjoy food before everyone else at 3pm. VIP tickets are limited to the first 50, so purchase yours early!
Beat the traffic by parking at a C&C Park & Ride location and taking the Skyline directly to the event. We will also offer free shuttle service to and from nearby parking lots. Shuttle locations and schedules will be announced soon, so please check our website and social media for updates.
⭐ VIP Ticket Includes:
• Early entry for ONE beginning at 3:00 p.m. — beat the crowds and lines while enjoying first access to more than 80 vendors, food, games, and Japanese festival games!
• ONE VIP parking space on campus — enjoy the convenience of guaranteed on-site parking.
• Access for ONE to the VIP Lounge — take a break from the crowds, enjoy VIP amenities, and conveniently access the bar. VIP guests will receive a wristband allowing in-and-out access to the lounge.
Aloha Festivals 72th Annual Waikīkī Ho‘olaule‘a
Get ready for a beachfront street festival like no other!
Kalākaua Avenue will be transformed with booths showcasing Hawai‘i cuisine, crafts and culture stretching as far as the eye can see. Taste the best of local flavors from around the island in one place, and peruse artisan-made crafts. Multiple stages with incredible entertainment will rock the evening featuring top local artists, award-winning hālau hula, and more.
Aloha Festivals 78th Annual Floral Parade
A colorful procession of Hawaiian culture through Waikīkī
Intricate floats decorated with a rainbow of fresh flowers and men and women on horseback showcasing the traditional art of pāʻū riding. Participants from marching bands to hālau hula to civic leaders display the unique aloha spirit that unites Hawai‘i’s community.
Moolelo Christmas Spectacular 2026
Specific dates and details to come.
WATCH A HEARTWARMING AND FUN CHRISTMAS MUSICAL
FEEL THE THRILL OF THE SNOW AND LIGHT SHOW
TAKE A FAMILY PHOTO WITH SANTA
WRITE A LETTER TO SANTA
ROAST S'MORES OVER COZY FIRE PITS
ENJOY LIVE MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT
WATCH A HOLIDAY MOVIE UNDER THE STARS
GRIND HOLIDAY TREATS AND 'ONO PLATES FEATURING YOUR FAVORITE LOCAL BUSINESS
Kaimuki Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting
Approximately 40 Kaimuki businesses, schools bands, and community groups participating this year.
Lighting of the Kaimuki Christmas tree on top Pu'u O Kaimuki (also known as Menehune Hill.
44th Annual Okinawan Festival 2026 (no bon dance this year)
No Early Admission or Bon Dance this year.
Due to renovations at the Hawaii Convention Center, we will be holding a scaled-down and modified festival in 2026. You will still be able to dive into a world of vibrant Uchinanchu traditions, ono food, and rich history.
Cultural performances, activities, exhibits, marketplace.
And FOOD! Freshly made ANDAGI, shave ice, Okinawa soba, Pig’s Feet soup, Champura and more.
22nd Korean Festival Hawaii
Sharing, promoting, and raising awareness of Korean culture in the community. The Korean Festival presents a unique, authentic taste of Korean culture through food, dance, art, music, and entertainment. Organized by the Korean Festival Foundation.
Obon Festival & Bon Dance at Soto Mission of Aiea
2 NIGHTS - Friday & Saturday!
The Soto Mission of Aiea’s Bon Dance is perhaps the most festive event at Taiheiji. Hundreds upon hundreds of people come to Taiheiji to enjoy two evenings of dancing and food. Dancers form rings around the Bon Dance tower called the yagura and dance to both recorded music and live musicians.
The evening begins with an exciting performance by Hawaii Matsuri Taiko and Taiheiji’s own Somei Taiko Group. The Aiea Taiheiji Yagura Gumi which performs at several other Bon Dances each year, return for their homecoming at Taiheiji and play the popular Fukushima Ondo.
Bon Dance at Waipahu Soto Zen Temple Taiyoji (Friday & Saturday)
2 Nights: Friday and Saturday
Bon Dance, Taiko Performance, Food Booths, Activities
Key Project presents Hoʻomau Koʻolau - Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea
Save the date! Our Hoʻomau Koʻolau Festival this year will celebrate Lā Hoʻihoʻi Ea. Live performances, Kuʻi Kalo, EAducation, food + merch vendors and MORE!
Bon Dance at Aiea Hongwanji
Saturday night only
Bon Dance, Taiko Performance, Food Booths, Activities
Bon Dance at Palolo Hongwanji(Friday & Saturday Nights)
2 Nights! Friday & Saturday: Traditional bon dance music and dance
One of Oʻahu’s BEST Bon Dances, known for its welcoming community, great food, family activities, and unforgettable summer atmosphere. Whether you come every year or it’s your first time, we invite you to celebrate with us!
✨ Enjoy:
• Traditional Bon Dance throughout the evening
• Amazing local food vendors
• Shopping from small businesses & community organizations
• Family-friendly games and activities
• A welcoming community atmosphere for all ages
🅿️ FREE Parking at Chaminade University of Honolulu
🚌 Shuttle Service: 4:45 PM–9:45 PM
Come support local vendors, small businesses, and our community while helping keep this meaningful tradition alive for future generations.
Bring your family, invite your friends, and experience why so many local families make Palolo Hongwanji Bon Dance part of their summer tradition year after year. 🏮✨
Good food. Good people. Good memories.
Bon Dance at Jikoen Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
Traditional bon dance music and dance
Food booths, activities, fun for all ages.
Bon Dance at Shinshu Kyokai Mission (Friday & Saturday Nights)
2 Nights! Friday & Saturday: Traditional bon dance music and dance
Food booths, activities, fun for all ages.
Bon Dance at Haleiwa Jodo Mission (Friday & Saturday Nights)
2 Nights! Friday & Saturday
Community members come together to experience Japanese culture and traditions including bon dance, local and ethnic foods, dress, activities and more.
Bon Dance at Wahiawa Ryusenji-Soto Mission (Friday & Saturday Nights)
2 Nights! Friday & Saturday: Traditional bon dance music and dance
Food booths, activities, fun for all ages.
Bon Dance at Shinshu Kyokai Mission (Friday & Saturday Nights)
2 Nights! Friday & Saturday: Traditional bon dance music and dance
Food booths, activities, fun for all ages.
Bon Dance at Windward Buddhist Temple
Annual Bon Dance in Kailua!
Country Market opens at 5 pm featuring a rummage sale and numerous homemade merchandise items; baked goods such as manju and Okinawan nantu; takuan, bitter melon namasu, and assorted pickled vegetables.
Food Concession open at 6 pm and features our BBQ Stick and Hot Dog Dinner Plate, chili, saimin, SPAM musubi, and our famous andagi, which will be served hot and fresh while supplies last.
Bon Dance will begin at 7pm and last until approximately 10pm.
Bon Dance at Higashi Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin (Fri & Sat Evenings)
2 NIGHTS - Friday & Saturday!
Traditional bon dance music and dance.
Bon Dance at Haleiwa Shingon Mission (Friday & Saturday Nights)
Community members come together to experience Japanese culture and traditions including bon dance, local and ethnic foods, dress, activities and more.
Dates and time subject to change.
Obon Festival & Bon Dance at Rissho Kosei-Kai Buddhist Church of Hawaii (Fri & Sat Nights)
2 NIGHTS – Friday and Saturday!
Traditional bon dance music and dance provided by the Young Okinawans of Hawaii. There will be food booths serving oden, BBQ plates, warabi mochi, shave ice, musubi, ramen and chow fun. We will also have games for children. We offer visitors a way to pay respect for your ancestors by lighting a candle and place their name on our alter for prayer.
Bon Dance at Koboji Shingon Mission (Fri & Sat Evenings)
2 Nights - Friday & Saturday!
The food booth will open by 5:30pm on Friday and following the Hatsu Bon service on Saturday. Cash only, please.
Bon Dance at Waipahu Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
2 Nights! Friday & Saturday: Traditional bon dance music and dance
Food booths, activities, fun for all ages.
13th Annual Moiliili Summer Fest & Bon Dance (Back at University Avenue)
The Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest is an annual festival held during the Bon season and is a fundamental aspect of modern-day culture and life in Hawaii. Celebrating Japanese and Hawaiian roots of one of the oldest neighborhoods in Hawaii, the Mōʻiliʻili Summer Fest is home to the largest Bon dance in Honolulu.
Bon Dance at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin (Fri & Sat Evenings)
2 Nights: Friday and Saturday
At 6 p.m., festivities begin outside with a taiko drumming performance, which will be followed by an opening aspiration from the yagura (the stage around which we dance) at 6:15 p.m. Dancing begins at 6:30 p.m.
Dancing
Taiko drumming (PBA on Friday, temple’s group on Saturday)
Fellowship
Honoring ancestors
Bontique shop in our Social Hall
Professional photos by Studio FX3 (kimonos & assistance dressing provided!)
Temple tours (from main, upper-level sanctuary or hondo)
Kids’ “Wheel of Chances” game
Ono food!
BBQ Plates & Bowls
Hot Dogs, Teri Hamburgers
Saimin
Chili
Soy Beans
Spam Musubi
Shave Ice
Andagi (Saturday only)
Baked Goods
Water, Juice, Soda
Bon Dance at Ewa Hongwanji Mission
“As we celebrate Obon, don't forget to look up into the night sky. As countless as the stars in the sky are, so are the teachings of our ancestors and the many lives that come into our lives. Let us take the time to contemplate that and appreciate the lives we have because of others.” - Ewa Hongwanji Reverend
27th Annual Haleiwa Arts Festival (Day 2)
Nestled on the North Shore of Oahu, the Haleiwa Arts Festival has become a beloved annual tradition that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and vibrant artistic community of Hawaii. Since its inception, the festival has grown into a cornerstone event, attracting artists, visitors, and art enthusiasts from around the world.
27th Annual Haleiwa Arts Festival (Day 1)
Nestled on the North Shore of Oahu, the Haleiwa Arts Festival has become a beloved annual tradition that celebrates the rich cultural heritage and vibrant artistic community of Hawaii. Since its inception, the festival has grown into a cornerstone event, attracting artists, visitors, and art enthusiasts from around the world.
43rd Pan-Pacific Hoolaulea & Bon Dance Festival
Festival Weekend Overview:
Performing Arts Showcase: Starting on Friday, June 12 the Pan-Pacific Festival will showcase performances from Ala Moana to Waikīkī through Sunday, June 14, from local taiko groups and dance groups, and more!
Pan-Pacific Hula Festival: Located at the Kūhiō Beach Hula Mound, events start from Friday, June 12 through Sunday, June 14 with hula halau from both Japan and Hawai‘i performing. There will be several stages with performances by local artists, Japanese dance groups, and more, along with delicious festival food, treats, and much more.
Pan-Pacific Ho‘olaule‘a: The ho‘olaule‘a block party kicks off on Friday, June 12, from 7 to 10 p.m. along Kalākaua Ave. from Seaside Ave. to Uluniu Ave. and will feature performance stages, various food and festival food booths, as well as other vendors. The Bon Dance is also along the ho‘olaule‘a route.
Pan-Pacific Parade: The festival concludes with the Pan-Pacific Parade on Sunday, June 14, beginning at 5 p.m. along Kalākaua Ave.
Bon Dance at Wahiawa Hongwanji Mission (Friday & Saturday Evenings)
2 NIGHTS! Traditional bon dance music and dance
Food booths, activities, fun for all ages.
Save the Dates: Mele Conference and Mele Hula Festival
Kāhuli Leo Leʻa invites you to gather once again for the Mele Conference and Mele Hula Festival—a three-day event dedicated to the cultural stewards of mele Hawaiʻi, and a space to connect, collaborate, and uplift this vital practice!
The conference will feature intergenerational panel discussions, followed by the Mele Hula Festival, a competition honoring the composition and performance of original mele and hula.
More details to come.
Save the Date: Mele Conference and Mele Hula Festival Opening Day (3 Day Festival)
Kāhuli Leo Leʻa invites you to gather once again for the Mele Conference and Mele Hula Festival—a three-day event dedicated to the cultural stewards of mele Hawaiʻi, and a space to connect, collaborate, and uplift this vital practice!
The conference will feature intergenerational panel discussions, followed by the Mele Hula Festival, a competition honoring the composition and performance of original mele and hula.
More details to come.
36th Annual Obon Celebration at Hawaii’s Plantation Village
This year’s celebration will once again feature 10 bon dance groups from all over Oahu. The 10 groups featured are: Ewa Fukushima Bon Dance Club Haleiwa Bon Dance Club Hawaii Eisa Shinyuu Kai Hawaii Shin Kobukai Iwakuni Odori Aiko Kai Koolau Sakura Odori Kai Oahu District Bon Dance Club Senwa Kai Wahiawa Hongwanji Bon Dance Team Waipahu Soto Mission Bon Dance Class
The celebration will also feature special performances by emcee and singer Hikariyama Torao and taiko performances by Waipahu Taiyoji Taiko and Ryugen Taiko. A special lantern floating ceremony will also take place at the village pond at sunset. A limited number of lanterns will be available for purchase at the event at the Waipahu Soto Zen Temple tent.
Obon Dance Workshop presented by Hawaii State Library
Bon Season is upon us! All are welcome to come and learn dances that are often danced at the bon dance; which for Hawai’i will be until October. This program is fun for all ages and will be held in the Adult Reading Room!
For those of you who aren’t familiar with Bon Dances or Bon Odori, it is an annual Japanese Dance Festival that occurs during Obon season in the Summer. It is a celebration of family, heritage, tradition, a celebration of life, and a way to honor ones’ ancestors. Children under 12 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
HEART of Honolulu Street Festival - NEW DATE!
NEW FESTIVAL DATE – May 9, 2026! Due to weather, the original April 11 date was postponed.
We invite artists and arts organizations to take to the streets, as we shut down Nuuanu Avenue in Chinatown and open it to pedestrian traffic for everyone to experience and enjoy the HEART of the Chinatown Arts District, including art, live music, food, creative local vendors, performances and more.
HEART is an acronym that stands for Heritage, Entertainment, Arts & Culture, Restaurants, and Theatre & Performing Arts. Together, these elements make up the core of the vibrant creative community that exists in the Bethel and Nuʻuanu Avenue district, between King Street and Beretania Avenue.