Bon dance · Mililani, Oahu
Mari’s Garden Bon Dance 2026
Hosted by Mari’s Garden
Mari's Gardens is an 18-acre aquaponics and hydroponics farm in Mililani, opened in 2007 by Fred Lau and named after his daughter Mariko. The farm hosts a variety of community events throughout the year; the obon bon dance is part of that community programming, held on the farm grounds rather than at a traditional Buddhist temple.
- Held at an 18-acre working aquaponics and hydroponics farm
- Farm founded 2007; named after founder's daughter Mariko
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While you’re out for Mari’s Garden Bon Dance, see who else is open — and meet the makers and farmers behind Hawai‘i’s markets.
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Good to know
When is Mari’s Garden Bon Dance?
Mari’s Garden Bon Dance is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026, but the source has not published a time yet.
Where is Mari’s Garden Bon Dance?
You'll find Mari’s Garden Bon Dance at Mari’s Garden, Mari’s Garden, 94-415 Makapipipi St, Mililani, HI 96789 in Mililani, Oahu.
Should I confirm Mari’s Garden Bon Dance before going?
Yes. Our listing is based on JCCH 2026 statewide schedule; local/secondary location snippets; https://www.jcchawaii.org/resources/2026-obon-schedule; https://www.honolulumagazine.com/oahu-bon-dance-schedule/. Event dates and times can change, so confirm with the host before you go.
About bon dances
Bon dance (bon odori) is the centerpiece of obon, the Japanese Buddhist season honoring ancestors. In Hawaii the tradition arrived with plantation-era immigrants and became its own local institution — most temples across the islands hold a dance on a summer weekend between June and September, and the whole community turns out.
The setup is consistent: a yagura (a raised tower) anchors the temple yard, taiko drummers and singers keep the beat, and dancers move in concentric circles around the tower. You don't need to know the steps or be Buddhist to join — follow the circle, copy the person ahead of you, and you'll pick it up by the second song. Around the edges you'll find food booths selling andagi, plate lunches, shave ice, and saimin, plus craft and game tables.
- No experience needed — step into the circle and follow along.
- Come hungry; the food booths are half the reason people go.
- Bring small cash for food, games, and craft tables.
- Dances run rain or shine and are free to attend.
Sources: JCCH 2026 statewide schedule; local/secondary location snippets; https://www.jcchawaii.org/resources/2026-obon-schedule; https://www.honolulumagazine.com/oahu-bon-dance-schedule/. Dates and times can change — confirm with the organizer before you go.