contributing photographer Janis Hirohama (front) takes a moment for a selfie with Judy Kamibayashi Louff, Ernie Tashima, Nathlyn Hirohama and Lizy Moromisato.
OCBC’s Daion Taiko performs.
Bonbu Stories performs “Lantern Song,” which has been a hit at Obon festivals all summer. From left, Miko Shudo, Michael Murata, and Emily Imaizumi.
Bon Odori was held both evenings with hundreds of dancers.
Custom OCBC cookies were available, crafted by Donna Yuki.
Imagawayaki were hot sellers.
Buddhist Churches of America Bishop Marvin Harada with his wife, Gail, enjoy the day with a couple of visitors.
OCBC Bon Odori teachers are introduced.
Some dancers wore their regular clothes while others wore colorful yukata or summer kimono.
Photos by JANIS HIROHAMA

ANAHEIM —?Orange County Buddhist Church held its annual Obon Festival July 20-21, with scores of visitors descending on the large campus in Anaheim.

Obon (Gathering of Joy) is an opportunity to commemorate our deceased loved ones and reflect on the Dharma. The two-day event featured food, shop-ping, and taiko drum performances.

Each evening was capped off with Bon Odori dancing in gratitude to those who have gone before us. All were invited to participate.

As a special treat on Saturday, the Asian American collaborative Bonbu Stories gave a live performance of their beautiful “Lantern Song,” commissioned for the Buddhist Churches of America’s 125th anniversary. They have appeared at various Obon celebrations this summer.

Games gave youngsters a chance to win toys, while an opportunity raffle offered prizes for the older set.