Bon dance · Honolulu, Oahu · 7 PM – 10 PM
Higashi Hongwanji Hawaiʻi Betsuin Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Higashi Hongwanji Mission of Hawaiʻi
What to expect
The Higashi Hongwanji Betsuin traces its roots to 1916, when Rev. Shingyo Doi established a temporary chapel in Honolulu's Kalihi-Palama neighborhood — one of Hawaiʻi's earliest Jodo Shinshu congregations and the head temple of the Higashi (Eastern) Hongwanji district in the state. Formally recognized as the Hawaii Betsuin in 1922, the mission relocated to its current Alaneo Street building in 1983.
The two-evening summer bon dance draws community members and visitors alike, with food booths opening at 5:30 p.m. and an opening ceremony at 6:30 before open-circle dancing begins at 7. Vendor stalls rotate offerings across the two nights — fresh andagi, shave ice and desserts, yakisoba with or without BBQ meat, hot ramen, and freshly fried croquettes appear both evenings, while Spam musubi is offered on Friday and chili rice on Saturday. The cafeteria hosts keiki activities including origami, fan painting, doll card making, and flower arranging alongside the dancing.
Program highlights
- Head temple of Hawaiʻi's Higashi (Eastern) Hongwanji district, founded 1916
- Food booths open 5:30 p.m.; opening ceremony 6:30; dancing 7–9:30 p.m.
- Keiki crafts in cafeteria: origami, fan painting, doll card making
- Friday-only Spam musubi; Saturday-only chili rice at food stalls
Plan your visit
Food & vendors: Fresh andagi, yakisoba, hot ramen, fried croquettes, shave ice and desserts, Spam musubi (Friday), chili rice (Saturday), and drinks from temple food vendors
Parking & access: Free parking at adjacent Likelike Elementary School; street-level entry to venue
Plan your weekend on Oahu
While you’re out for Higashi Hongwanji Hawaiʻi Betsuin Bon Dance, see who else is open — and meet the makers and farmers behind Hawai‘i’s markets.
Farmers markets this weekend
What’s worth a trip this weekend
One email a week: the makers worth seeking out, pop-ups, and Hawai‘i cultural events worth planning around.
Sources: Verification source; Verification source. Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go.