Obon Weekend floats into Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

DELRAY BEACH, FL – Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach will host its annual Obon Weekend on August 15-16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Obon is a traditional Japanese festival and holiday observed to honor the spirits of one’s ancestors, who are believed to return home for a short time to visit their living relatives.

Bon Alter and Memory Slips

Throughout Obon Weekend, visitors are invited to write the names of departed loved ones and messages on special memory slips, offering a quiet space for remembrance and reflection. Guests may also pay their respects at the bon altar of museum founder George Morikami, on display in the Kamiya Room next to the Membership Desk.

Taiko Drumming

Experience the ancient art of taiko drumming. Fushu Daiko will perform live in the Morikami Theater on Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $5 for members, $10 for non-members (with paid museum admission). Purchase tickets at morikami.org/event/obon-weekend.

Bon Dancing Workshop and Performance

On Saturday and Sunday, step into the circle of tradition with a Bon Odori workshop led by Fushu Daiko on the museum’s scenic lakefront terrace. This joyful and symbolic Japanese folk dance is performed in unison to honor the spirits of departed loved ones. Participants in the workshop are invited to join the live Bon dance performance afterward, dancing alongside taiko drummers in a moving tribute. Bon dance workshop starts at 3:30 p.m. Live Bon dance performance starts at 3:50 p.m. Free with museum admission.

Guiding Lights and Lantern Kits

In honor of Obon, guests can light up their private celebrations and welcome home beloved ancestors’ spirits with a colorful Guiding Light Lantern ($5) or Lantern at Home Kit ($8). Available for purchase in the Morikami Museum Lobby.

Family Fun Day: Lantern Craft

Kids are invited to make their very own special paper lantern to light up the night! Visit the Sakai Room on Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free with museum admission.

Launch the Lantern Dinner Fundraiser – An Exclusive Obon Celebration

Celebrate Obon beneath the stars at Morikami’s exclusive Launch the Lantern Dinner on Sunday, at 6:30 p.m. This unforgettable evening includes a gourmet sit-down dinner paired with whiskey and sake tastings. Guests will also have the opportunity to personalize and decorate their own Obon lanterns. The evening features live taiko drumming and a special floating lantern presentation over the tranquil waters of Lake Morikami. Proceeds from the event support the museum’s 4Es: Exhibitions, Education, Emotional Wellness programs, and Expansion. Tickets are $200 per person. Purchase tickets at morikami.org/event/launch-the-lantern-dinner/.

Obon Weekend admission is $18 for adults; $12 for children; and free for museum members.

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens is located at 4000 Morikami Park Road, Delray Beach. For more information, call (561) 495-0233 or visit morikami.org.