Bon dance · Hilo, Big Island
Hilo Higashi Hongwanji Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Hilo Higashi Hongwanji Mission
- When
- Aug 8, 20267 PM – 9:30 PM
- Where
- Hilo, Big IslandGet directions
- Host
- Hilo Higashi Hongwanji Mission
Sources
Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go. Historical dates reflect advertised schedules; a past date alone does not confirm the event took place.
Date
- Saturday, August 8, 2026, 7 PM – 9:30 PM
What to expect
Founded in 1928 as a Jōdo Shinshū congregation (Higashi Honganji branch), the temple was rebuilt at its current site after the 1960 Chilean tsunami destroyed its original home in Waiakea Town.
The evening opens with a Hatsu Bon service honoring members who passed in the past year, then shifts to community bon dancing. The concession stand — known to sell out early — features andagi, saimin, hot dogs, and refreshments; the temple chairman has advised guests to eat early before supplies run out. Both the service and the dance are free and open to the public.
Program highlights
- Founded 1928; original Waiakea Town temple destroyed by 1960 Chilean tsunami
- Hatsu Bon memorial service precedes community bon dancing
- Concession stand sells andagi, saimin, and hot dogs — known to sell out early
- Free and open to the public
Plan your visit
- Food & vendors
- Andagi, saimin, hot dogs, and refreshments from temple concession
Farmers markets this weekend
Plan your weekend on Big Island
While you’re out for Hilo Higashi Hongwanji Bon Dance, see who else is open — and meet the makers and farmers behind Hawai‘i’s markets.
What’s worth a trip this weekend
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