On Saturday, Aug. 1 and Sunday, Aug. 2, the Stockton Buddhist Church will present its traditional Bon Odori and Cultural Bazaar at the temple grounds located on 2820 Shimizu Drive in Stockton California. Activities begin at 11 AM for both days featuring a celebration of cultural demonstrations, arts and food. The Public is invited to participate and share in this annual tradition.
Saturday starts off with the sound of Taiko drums will signal the start of activities that include cultural demonstrations of traditional classical dance, martial arts, displays of Asian arts and crafts. Featured performances include the Stockton Bukkyo Taiko, Shigin (Japanese Spoken word), Minyo Dance, Sacramento Taiko, Stockton Judo and The Stockton Kendo club. There will also be crafts on display and for sale. This takes place in the Church Social Hall.
The Bon Odori , is scheduled on opening day of the bazaar, at 7 pm. Bon Odori, is the Buddhist event that marks a remembrance of one’s ancestors. Members of the Church celebrate in traditional Japanese costume while performing traditional celebration dances including the use of fans, castanets as they celebrate remembrance of ancestors and loved ones who have left. It has become a homecoming for families and friends.
Food will be offered both in the Social Hall and outside along with games for the kids and the popular plant sales tent. Food offerings include our award winning teriyaki along with traditional sushi as well as Udon and Somen noodles. Other delights include tempura, kushiyaki BBQ oysters and our Asia Dogs return. There’s also baked goodies and refreshments from soda to beer.
The Public is encouraged so come out and celebrate and dance. So enjoy the Arts, Play the games and of course, dine on the food!! As always, Free admission and Parking on hand.
Download flyer here (PDF).
Download program here (PDF).