Traditionally called Obon, Kangi-E (Gathering of Joy) is a time to return to one’s home and reflect upon what one has received from others. Based upon a time when Mogallana, one of Shakyamuni’s disciples, sought to honor the loss of his mother, Obon is an opportunity for everyone to remember those who have passed before us. It is a time to appreciate all that they have done and to recognize the continued impact of their deeds upon our lives.
Over the centuries, the Obon service incorporated a festival. The festival included local folk music and Obon Odori, or Obon dancing, in which a town, village, or temple would dance in memory of their ancestors.
At Mountain View Buddhist Temple, we observe Obon during the 3rd weekend of July and host a Bazaar. We build booths, make food, host games, provide live entertainment and – most importantly – we dance! The entire community is invited to celebrate with us.
In 2020 and 2021 we were forced by the COVID pandemic to move to an online format. The digital format of those celebrations allowed us to share our event on-line. Undaunted, we were able to gather remotely and share our appreciation for our forebearers with friends and family everywhere.
For 2022 we are fortunate to have a limited, in-person Obon Bazaar for our MVBT members. Due to the ongoing concerns of COVID, we will have an outdoor celebration limited to MVBT members only. Registration is required. MVBT members can find out more about this year’s celebration at this link: Obon-Not-At-Home 2022.
575 N. Shoreline Boulevard
Mountain View, CA 94043
© 2023 Mountain View Buddhist Temple
