The Japanese American Association of Lane County invites all ages to their free drop-in Obon (pronounced O-bone) dance practices at Sheldon Community Center in preparation for the July 29th Oregon Asian Celebration and Obon & Taiko Festival at Alton Baker Park.

  Four drop-in dance practice sessions are planned as follows:

Mondays on July 17th and 24th from 7:15-9:15 p.m. and Thursdays, on July 20th and 27th  from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Sheldon Community Center, 2445 Willakenzie Rd. Eugene.

The Obon folk dances are fun, lively, and easy to learn. Everyone is welcome to join the Obon concentric circle dances during the evening hours of the festival.

            Obon dances are traditional Japanese American folk dances performed at festivals to honor one’s ancestors and to celebrate a sense of community.  All ages can learn these easy dances performed with hand motions, fans, hats, and other accessories. 

For details about the Oregon Asian Celebration and Obon & Taiko Festival on July 29th, visit AsianCelebration.org.