Obon Humboldt Festival Celebrates Japanese Heritage on August 17

The fourth annual Obon Humboldt Festival, hosted by the Humboldt Asians & Pacific Islanders in Solidarity (HAPI), will take place on August 17, 2023, from 15:00 to 19:00 at the Arcata Playhouse, located at 1251 Ninth St. in Arcata. This vibrant event celebrates the traditional Japanese Buddhist custom of Obon, which honors the spirits of ancestors.

The festival will begin with a blessing from Rev. Rinban Gerald Sakamoto, minister of the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin, who has participated in the festival for the past three years. Along with sharing the stories and traditions of Obon, the festival will feature an altar dedicated to ancestors. Attendees will also have the opportunity to write messages on tanzaku, slips of paper that can be hung on community trees as a tribute to loved ones who have passed away.

In addition to honoring ancestors, the festival will offer a range of activities, including Obon dancing, taiko drumming, and performances by local artists. Food vendors will be present, providing a taste of Japanese cuisine, while children’s activities will ensure that families can enjoy the festivities together.

HAPI welcomes donations to support this free festival, with donation jars available at their booth during the event. The organization is also seeking volunteers to assist with various tasks, such as staffing booths, setting up decorations, and managing recycling and trash duties. Interested individuals can reach out via email at [email protected].

A highlight of the festival will be the traditional Bon odori, a folk dance that invites participation from all ages. Circle dancing will take place in the street, creating an inclusive atmosphere for community members. A final free dance lesson is scheduled for August 11 from 18:00 to 19:00 at the Bella Studio, located within the Redwood Raks World Dance Studio at 824 L St. in Arcata. Those unable to attend can learn the dance through instructional videos provided by local instructor Craig Kurumada at the festival’s official website.

The festival’s schedule will be available on the HAPI website, which can be accessed at www.hapihumboldt.org. Other scheduled events include a performance by Rick Kruse featuring the shakuhachi (Japanese flute), a welcome address by festival organizer Marylyn Paik-Nicely, and live music by Kenji Hatchimonji and Rick Kruse. The Humboldt Taiko drumming group, led by Gary Ronne, will perform twice during the festival.

The Obon Humboldt Festival not only celebrates Japanese heritage but also fosters community engagement and solidarity, showcasing the diversity and cultural richness of the Humboldt area.