August 15: 36th Annual Obon Festival
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Event Details
Join Las Vegas Buddhist Sangha for the 36th Annual Obon Festival — a celebration of culture, community, and remembrance.
Founded in 1984, the Las Vegas Buddhist Sangha is a Jodo Shinshu (Shin Buddhist) temple community grounded in the teachings of Shinran Shonin and the spirit of gratitude, compassion, and interconnectedness.
Traditionally known as Obon, Kangi-E (“Gathering of Joy”) is a time to return home in spirit and reflect on the many gifts and kindnesses we have received from others. Rooted in the story of Mogallana, a disciple of Shakyamuni Buddha who sought to honor his late mother, Obon offers an opportunity to remember and express gratitude to those who came before us. It is a time to appreciate their lives, their care, and the lasting influence they continue to have on us today.
LVBS’s first Obon service, conducted by Reverend Akio Miyaji, was held on July 19, 1985. Fast forward, Obon has become an Obon Festival, where we all celebrate the enduring connections between past and present.
Event highlights include:
- Bon Odori Dancing (including Okinawan dances at 1 p.m.)
- Cultural Performances & Taiko
- Craft Fair & Vendors
- Food Trucks & Bake Sale
- Kids Area
- Memorial Lanterns
- Raffle & Silent Auction (closes at 3 p.m.)
- Community Fellowship
36th Annual Obon Festival
Saturday, August 15, 2026
10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Okinawan Performance at 1 p.m.)
FREE
Bill & Lillie Heinrich YMCA
4141 Meadows Lane
Las Vegas, NV 89107
