A day after Independence Day I went to see "BON ODORI" at Bryant Park. It was 66th Annual OBON DANCE FESTIVAL.
I didn't even know this event was happening in New York until about 4 years ago.
"BON ODORI " is dance festival which is happening in Summer all thought Japan.
I think I have to speak about "BON" for a little. It is a Summer Buddhist Holiday which honors the memory of those who have passed away. And to welcome ancestors' sprits to be at home with us to celebrate good life, and wishing for the great harvest season to come after the festival.
We have very special preparations before it's arrival and special food to have those few days. I have so many great memories from my childhood with my family.
I believe people in Japan are still going back to home to spend days with families in the middle of very steamy hot summer.
When I arrived Bryan Park first section of BON-ODORI was finished. But I could see plenty of "BON ODORI" and some performances. And I took many snap shots of this very Japanese Festival in the middle of Manhattan.
By the way, BON-ODORI is happens in the night in Japan.
Many people will be wearing "YUKATA" Cotton Kimono and carrying "UCHIWA" rounded fan to keep themselves cool in the clouded town square to see or dance under paper rantans' light...
There were performances between "OBON DANCE FESTIVAL"
Including "SOH DAIKO"
New York based traditional Japanese Drumming Group.
I think they are getting better each year,
