The 4th Annual Mendocino Obon Festival is BACK!
Saturday, Aug 8th, 2026 - noon to 5pm
Obon is one of the most important events in Japan, and it shapes Japanese spiritual foundation: Paying respect to ancestors and celebrating life. Japanese summer cannot exist without Obon. The Mendocino Sister Cities Association is thrilled to host the authentic Japanese festival again!
This year, we are having a variety of entertainment, including FREE ADMISSION Stage Performances, Art Market by local artists, Hands-On Project Table to provide cultural experiences for all ages, and of course, delicious Japanese foods.
The stage performances are Shakuhachi bamboo flute by Karl Young, Taiko Drumming by MendoTaiko, Japanese Dance by Hakata Kai, Japanese-Inspired World Music by Ancient Current, Redwood Coast Ukulele Jam, and UkiaHaiku.
Ten local artists will have their pop-up shops with various arts, such as ceramics, jewelry, textile, and photography. We hope you can find your favorite piece!
At our Hands-On Project Tables, you will learn various Japanese arts and crafts, and your creation is a keepsake from the festival. The projects are, Furoshiki, gift wrapping with cloth, Henna with Japanese characters, Ikebana, Japanese style Flowers Arrangement, Naire your name in Japanese on a bookmarks and others to personalize your artwork, Suminagashi, floating Ink Marbling, Origami, Paper Folding Art, and Uchiwa, Japanese fan collage. All ages are welcome, costing $3 to $10.
There will be a wide range of foods for purchase: Mochi Cake, Kawaii Sweets, and Gluten-Free Baked Goods by Happy Hermit. Take’s Grill will provide Bento and Yakisoba.
The net proceeds from this festival will be donated to the Mendocino Sister Cities Association (MSCA), the long-standing local organization dedicated to nurture a friendship between Mendocino and Omachi-Miasa, Japan. Over 33 years, MSCA supports Student Exchange Program as well as Artist Exchange Program. MSCA is 501C non-profit organization, and we appreciate your donations for our program and activities.
We would LOVE to send a big thank you to everyone involved in the event. Without you, this festival cannot happen. THANK YOU!
An authentic Japanese summer festival welcomes you with open arms. Enjoy a Day in Japan!
For more information, please visit: https://www.mendobonfest.com