Inspired by Japan's three-day Obon holiday honoring the spirits, the Morikami's largest event, Bon Festival, packed all of the celebration's excitement into one breathtaking evening. On Saturday, August 13, the festival followed the holiday's tradition of remembering ancestors and thanking them for our quality of life. Each year thousands of guests travel to the Morikami for the awe-inspiring Bon Festival which embraces the celebration and appreciation of those who passed.
Bon Festival features rousing taiko drum performances by Fushu Daiko, children's activities, traditional Japanese folk dancing, American & Japanese cuisine, and the Kirin Beer Garden. When night falls, patrons pay homage to those who have passed on by floating individually decorated candlelit lanterns on Morikami Pond, a traditional Japanese ceremony known as Toro Nagashi. The myriad of lights created by the floating lanterns signifies the guidance of departed souls back to where they came after their brief visit. Additionally, in light of the recent tragedy, there will be special remembrance opportunities offered by the Morikami to honor and raise funds for those whose lives were impacted by the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan. The night will end with a brilliant fireworks display over Morikami Lake.
Watch more from the festival on uVu! http://www.uvuvideo.org
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blessings ... to the Japanese Ancestors ... hope you find your way.... Amen.
heidiberg19 2 months ago