2025 Obon in the Garden: An Evening of Japanese Tradition and Memory (Bon Odori, Food, Snacks, Floating Lanterns..) Phoenix Japanese Friendship GardenNEW

Obon in the Garden
Celebrate Obon, a traditional Japanese holiday that celebrates the life of passed loved ones and ancestors at the Japanese Friendship Garden of Phoenix. Join us for group dancing, floating lanterns on our pond, and more during this evening event.

Please note that there is no general evening Admission June 15th. General admission is included with event ticket purchase.

Date
May 10, 2025

Time
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Admission
General: Online $20/At Gate $22
Youth 7-17: Online $18/ At Gate $20

Members: Free!
Arizona Buddhist Temple Member: Free!

Obon Activity
5:30 pm-7:30 pm: Customizing lanterns and floating them on the pond
*$5 fee for lanterns

Create your own beautiful lantern in memory of past loved ones or heartfelt wishes to float along the pond. Lanterns are limited to first come first served and at an additional cost.

Stage Programs

6:15 pm-6:30 pm: Opening Ceremony �" Chanting by Arizona Buddhist Temple
Monks from the Arizona Buddhist Temple will lead a traditional chanting ceremony to open the event. This peaceful ritual offers a moment of reflection and honors those who have passed, setting a mindful tone for the program.

6:30 pm-7:00 pm: Obon Dance (Bon Odori) - led by the Arizona Buddhist Temple.
The Obon Dance is a traditional Japanese folk dance performed during the Obon Festival to honor and remember the spirits of ancestors. Danced in a circle with simple, joyful movements, it brings communities together in celebration and remembrance.

Intermission

7:30 pm �" 8:00 pm: Obon Dance (Bon Odori) - led by the Arizona Buddhist Temple.
8:30 pm: Gates Close

Food Vendors
Arizona Buddhist Temple
• Somen salad- Japanese cold noodle with dressing and toppings
• Mochi cake

Kakigori Addict
• Japanese shave ice
• Takoyaki

Komugi Japanese Bakery
• Japanese style baked goods

Rohoen Market
• Japanese snacks, drinks and more!

What To Expect
Join us in a traditional group Obon dance, hosted by the Arizona Buddhist Temple, where we can honor our ancestors and those that have passed with elegant movement.

Witness the glowing beauty of floating lanterns carrying heartfelt wishes, casting a soft light upon our pond, in a scene that will be unforgettable.

Guests can also stroll through our tranquil garden, where the atmosphere invites quiet contemplation and peaceful reflection, adding to the atmosphere of the Obon holiday.

Additionally, savor the flavors of Japan with delectable snacks and refreshing beverages from our Gift Shop, or take home an omiyage (souvenir) to commemorate your time.

We hope that you will join us for an evening of unity, remembrance, and celebration of Japanese culture at our next event!

Tickets

Location
Phoenix Japanese Friendship Garden - Ro Ho En, 1125 N 3rd Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85003

Title
Obon in the Garden: An Evening of Japanese Tradition and Memory (Bon Odori, Food, Snacks, Floating Lanterns..) Phoenix Japanese Friendship Garden