Bon Dance on Kauai: A Free Japanese Festival

If you’re planning a summer trip to Hawaii, experiencing a Bon Dance should be on your list. These lively gatherings, also known as Obon festivals, are among the most unique cultural events on the island. A Bon Dance is a free Japanese festival filled with lanterns, drumming, food booths, and community dancing.

Unlike staged shows, Bon Dances are authentic local celebrations that welcome both residents and visitors. You don’t need to be Japanese or Buddhist to join in; anyone can step into the circle, try the dances, and enjoy traditional foods. If you’re looking for things to do on Kauai in summer beyond the beaches, a Bon Dance offers a fun and unforgettable cultural experience.

What Is a Bon Dance?

Bon Dances began in Japan as a Buddhist custom to honor ancestors. On Kauai, Japanese immigrants who arrived during the plantation era brought the tradition in the late 1800s. Today it has grown into a cherished summer event. Today, each temple’s Bon Dance combines cultural rituals, live taiko drumming, food, and community spirit.

For travelers, it’s both a celebration and a glimpse into Kauai’s history.

Can Visitors Attend?

Yes, everyone is welcome! While Obon is now celebrated differently in Japan, Bon Dances on Kauai (and other Hawaiian islands) are free festivals open to the public. Locals are welcoming and happy to see visitors join in. You don’t need to be Buddhist or Japanese to take part. Attending a Bon Dance was a highlight of my visit to Kauai.

What to Expect at a Bon Dance on Kauai

• Lanterns & Atmosphere
  As evening falls, the festival grounds glow with paper lanterns. The central tower (yagura) becomes the stage for drummers and dancers. The energy is joyful, family-friendly, and easygoing.
• The Dancing
  Circles of dancers move around the yagura, following simple, repetitive steps. Some dances are traditional, others are modern (including a very fun one to the song Pokemon Ondo!). Watch from the sides or jump in and follow along. Normally, there will be a short Buddhist service, dancing, taiko drumming performance and then the dances will repeat.
• Food Booths
  Food is a huge part of the experience. You’ll find Kauai Bon Dance specialties like flying saucers (a grilled sloppy joe sandwich pressed in a metal iron), plate lunches, teriyaki chicken, noodles, sushi, shave ice, and homemade desserts.
• Cultural Traditions
  Many Bon Dances include a short Buddhist service or taiko drumming performance. Games for children, craft booths, and community fundraisers are often included. At the end of the Bon Dance, some Buddhist temples, also called missions, will have a small fire where they burn the names of their ancestors. This symbolizes a sending off for the spirits.

Tips for Attending

• Arrive Hungry: The food lines can be long but worth it. Go early if you want the most popular items as they usually sell out.
• Dance if You Like: Visitors are encouraged to step in. It’s not a performance, it’s a community dance.
• Bring Cash: Most food and game booths are cash-only, although I’ve attended ones that sell tickets at the entrance to create a cashless event.
• Plan Parking: Depending on the temple, parking may be limited. Arrive early, carpool or be willing to park a bit further away.
• Respect the Tradition: Remember, Bon Dances are festive but also honor ancestors.

Where to Find Bon Dances on Kauai

From June through August, Buddhist temples across Kauai host their own Bon Dances. Each temple has its own flavor, but the spirit of community, food, and dance is the same everywhere. Visitors are welcome at all of them.

If you are curious about the music, attire or what happens at a Bon Dance, here’s a video of the Hyatt Bon Dance on Kauai in 2025.

Final Thoughts

Whether you go for the taiko drums, the food, or the chance to dance under lanterns, a Kauai Bon Dance is one of the best free Japanese festivals you can experience on the island. It’s a chance to celebrate culture, connect with the community, and create a memory that goes far beyond the beach.

For more Kauai Adventures, be sure to check out our Kauai playlist or Posts about Kauai