Obon Festival: Honoring Ancestors and Cherishing Family Connections
Obon is a time to honor ancestors and gather with loved ones. Discover the traditions and heartfelt reunions that make this summer holiday so special.
In Japan, Obon is a cherished summer holiday when families reunite to honor their ancestors. Taking place from August 13th to 16th, it’s one of the busiest times of the year for florists, as families prepare flowers for gravesites and home altars.
Traditionally, families clean graves, offer flowers and food, and light lanterns to guide their ancestors’ spirits home. The first day begins with visiting graves, making offerings, and lighting incense. Lanterns are lit for the journey back. The second day is for gathering around a large meal and enjoying time together. On the final day, families return to the graves to pray and send the spirits back to the other world.
While rooted in Buddhist tradition, Obon is also a celebration of family bonds. This year, I reunited with cousins I hadn’t seen in nearly 30 years. As children, we played together every summer, but life pulled us in different directions. Spending a few precious hours together reminded me that Obon is as much about reconnecting as it is about tradition.
Wishing you a joyful summer filled with meaningful connections.