Bon Dance

Aloha Kakou:

Yesterday, the first bon dance of the season was held at the Lahaina Shingon Mission. The bon dance season runs now through the end of August, with a dance scheduled every Friday or Saturday (or, in the case of the larger Missions like the one behind my home, both Friday and Saturday).

The bon dance originated in Japan and was brought here along with Japanese plantation workers in the late 1800s. The dances honor and remember the Buddhist's departed ancestors.

Like any church festival, there's always plenty of homemade food. Unlike church festivals I remember, there's plenty of music and ritual dancing - many of the women dance in highly decorated kimonos. There's also the chance to make new friends while you mingle with the locals. I highly recommend you check out a dance if you're here during the summer. These events aren't on any tourist's map, making them just that much more authentic.

http://www.mauitime.com/Articles-i-2009-06-04-69769.113117_Bon_Dance_Past_Present_Future.html