Taiko Workshop and Lantern Lightening Ceremony

Obon is a series of Summer events in Japan based on Buddhist and ancestral worship that enshrine and celebrate the spirits of ancestors. Typically, people return to their hometowns to celebrate Obon each year. Families gather, clean their graveyard and the shrine in their house, and light lanterns to welcome the spirits home. After the spirits spend a few days with family, the Bon-Odori dancers form a circle under the lanterns to guide the spirits back to the otherworld.

The Philadelphia Obon Festival continues a new Shofuso tradition, to light lanterns and float them on Shofuso’s pond. This night of remembrance and commemoration is dedicated to those no longer with us. Each registered participant will be able to choose if they would like to launch floating lanterns on Shofuso’s pond or simply observe the serenity of the experience.  

More information https://japanphilly.org/obon/s

Also, we have a Taiko Workshop by instructor Mac Evans. 

Mac Evans will lead a weekly series of free repertoire-learning workshops. Develop your Taiko skills with Mac in the shadow of Shofuso’s historic 17th century architecture while enjoying the serenity and beauty of Philadelphia’s West Fairmount Park.

Wear clothing that is comfortable to move around in and appropriate for outdoor weather. Jewelry such as rings, dangling necklaces and earrings are discouraged (for safety’s sake). Drums and bachi (drumsticks) will be provided, and no previous experience is required.

More information https://japanphilly.org/?event=taiko-workshop