Bon Festival - Fushu Daiko Taiko Drummers Perform August 9, 2008

Celebrate this fun-packed evening, August 9, 2008 5:00pm - 9:00pm

Bon Festival Overview - Inspired by Obon, Japan’s traditional three-day holiday honoring ancestors and thanking them for the quality of life enjoyed by the living, The Morikami celebrates Bon Festival in one fun-packed evening. Highlights include rousing taiko drum performances, traditional Japanese folk dancing with audience participation, and a street fair with games and vendor booths. The highlight of the evening begins at sunset when Morikami Pond is transformed into a tranquil sea of lighted lanterns which, in accordance with Japanese custom, guide the departure of ancestors’ souls who have come for a brief visit among the living. A special fireworks display caps the enchanting evening.

Admission - Regular admission is $10 Adults (18 and over), $5 children (7-17), free for museum members and children 6 and under. (No special senior discounts are available)

Food - There will be on-site food vendors serving a variety of food items. The Morikami's own Cornell Cafe will also be open and serving Pan-Asian favorites.

Parking - On-site parking is provided FREE of charge.

ATM - There are no ATM's on the grounds of The Morikami. Please plan accordingly. There is Publix and banks near by before entering the Gardens.

Lantern Sales - Lantern sleeves for the Toro Nagashi (lantern floating) ceremony will be on sale starting at 5pm the night of the event. The cost is $5 per sleeve and is the perfect way to honor and remember a lost loved one. There is a limited amount of sleeves available and they cannot be purchased in advance. Make sure to get yours early in the evening as they sell out every year!

Entertainment Schedule
5:00pm - 9:00pm Ennichi Street Fair (games and activities for children)
5:15pm - 5:30pm Taiko Drum Performance by Fushu Daiko
5:45pm - 6:15pm Bon Odori (Bon Dance)
6:30pm - 7:00pm Taiko Drum Performance by Fushu Daiko
7:15pm - 7:45pm Bon Odori (Bon Dance)
8:00pm - 8:15pm Taiko Drum Performance by Fushu Daiko
8:30pm - 9:00pm Toro Nagashi (floating of the lanterns)
9:00pm Fireworks Display

*Entertainment schedule subject to change without notice*

Learn more about: Fushu Daiko has been recognized by the Mayor of Miami, Manuel Diaz and The Consulate General of Japan in Miami, Ko Kodaira for creating a greater understanding of the Japanese culture in our community and strengthening the bonds between Florida, USA, and Japan. http://www.fushudaiko.com/

Bon Festival "Words of Wisdom" - This event is held outdoors and is rain or shine. There is a lot of walking involved and most of the activities are on grass. Shuttle service is not provided for this event so please be sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing as August tends to be a very hot month in Florida and the walk from your car to the festival grounds may be lengthy. For further event information, please call 561-495-0233 x200.

Official Website: http://morikami.org/index.php?src=events&srctype=detail&refno=2310&category=Annual%20Festivals