Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach will host Obon Weekend August 15-16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The traditional Japanese festival honors the spirits of ancestors, who are believed to return home for a short time to visit their living relatives.
Bon Alter and Memory Slips
Throughout Obon Weekend, visitors are invited to write the names of departed loved ones and messages on memory slips, offering a quiet space for remembrance and reflection.
Guests may also pay their respects at the bon altar of museum founder George Morikami, on display in the Kamiya Room.
Taiko Drumming
Fushu Daiko will perform live in the Morikami Theater on Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 for members and $10 for non-members with paid museum admission.
Bon Dancing Workshop and Performance
Step into the circle of tradition with Bon Odori workshops led by Fushu Daiko on the museum’s scenic lakefront terrace. This joyful and symbolic Japanese folk dance is performed in unison to honor the spirits of departed loved ones.
Workshop participants are invited to join the live Bon dance performance afterward, dancing alongside taiko drummers in a moving tribute. Bon dance workshop starts at 3:30 p.m. Live Bon dance performance starts at 3:50 p.m. Free with museum admission.
Guiding Lights and Lantern Kits
In honor of Obon, guests can light up their private celebrations and welcome home beloved ancestors’ spirits with a colorful Guiding Light Lantern ($5) or Lantern at Home Kit ($8).
Family Fun Day: Lantern Craft
Kids are invited to make lanterns is the Sakai Room on Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free with museum admission.
Launch the Lantern Dinner
Celebrate Obon beneath the stars at Morikami’s Launch the Lantern Dinner on August 16 at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy a sit-down dinner paired with whiskey and sake tastings. Guests will also have the opportunity to personalize and decorate their own Obon lanterns. The evening features live taiko drumming and a floating lantern presentation over Lake Morikami.
Tickets are $200 per person and are available at morikami.org/event/launch-the-lantern-dinner/.
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