Bon Odori 2015

It's hot. It's humid. It's summer. That can only mean one thing in Japan...festivals! Bon Odori season is upon us and like last year we enjoyed participating in the local celebrations. Traditionally celebrated to honor one's ancestors, the base spouses get help from the locals to enjoy the festivities with an American twist. After learning 14 dances, the group dons red, white and blue yukatas and joins other local dance teams to perform at various events. This year, Jennifer brought JohnPaul to the practices and John was on baby duty at the events. The parade in Yamato was once again a thrilling local experience while the open base festival welcomed thousands of resident Japanese visitors. Many more people from the crowd seemed to participate in the dances this year, enhancing the community feeling of celebration. Bon Odori is truly an annual event worth anticipating all year long!

On the bus to the parade!



Lined up on the parade route in Yamato, ready to go!



John and JohnPaul ready to cheer on Jennifer and her friends!

 

Hmmm...could these be the Americans?

 

There goes Jennifer!

 

Performance stage at the base festival being visited by local city mascots (our city of Ebina is represented by the red, half shrimp, half strawberry).

 

Welcome to New York was the American pom pom dance this year.

 

Bon Odori dances are performed in a ring surrounding the stage at this event.

Family photo...say, "Bon Odori!"

A huge crowd turns out for this event each year (and this is just half of it).

JohnPaul gave us some great smiles at the festival!