Summertime: Perfect for Japanese folk dance

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Added: Wed. Jun 24, 2009 6:58pm
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Folk traditions span the globe. One of my favorite is coming up in July in Northern California.
Obon Odori, which is celebrated around the world during the summer months is a
community outdoor dance that honors those who have passed, and return to earth once a year to enjoy the earthly pleasures. The dances are performed in two or more concentric circles with the dance instructors in the center. By having the instructors dance on the inside circles, everyone else can watch and follow the simple steps. Cultural dress is generally worn at this annual event. Many women and children wear kimonos and the men don their yukata and happi coats.

The uchiwa fan and round paper lanterns are the symbols of this festival as they both represent the full moon and the ‘light’ to guide those who have passed, back to the heavens after their visit.

In Sonoma County where I live the festival takes place at the Enmanji Temple in Sebastopol. Established 75 years ago, this Japanese Buddhist community combines Obon Odori with their annual community fundraiser. The result is a spectacular opportunity for temple members to welcome and greet the larger San Francisco Bay Area community.

This year marks their 55th Annual Enmanji Temple Teriyaki Barbecue and Bazaar. Held July 12, 10AM-5PM, the day's offerings include tasty bbq chicken, Taiko drum performances, Ikebani flower demonstrations and much more.

The Obon Odori segment starts July 14 with dance practices. Free to the public, the dance instructors (former professional Japanese dancers) provide instruction for three nights.

The lantern dance takes place 7-9 PM July 18.

All family activities take place on the temple grounds, at 1200 Gravenstein Hwy. South, Sebastopol.

For more information, call 707-823-2252.
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