Moiliili Hongwanji expects huge crowd at ‘world’s biggest’ Fourth of July bon dance

Organizers of this year’s Moiliili Hongwanji Bon Dance are billing it as the "world’s biggest Fourth of July bon dance."

The Independence Day holiday is expected to boost attendance at the bon dance, which typically attracts an estimated crowd of 1,000 people, said spokesman Kerry Kiyohara in a news release.

Food concession booths will open at 5 p.m. July 4, and the opening ceremony is set for 6 p.m. at the old Varsity Theater Parking lot, 1100 University Ave.

The Rev. Dr. Bert Sumikawa, resident minister of Moiliili Hongwanji Mission, said, "Moiliili has been our home for more than 100 years, and so each year we invite friends and neighbors to join us in celebrating Obon, a time to remember not only the loved ones we’ve lost, but also to reflect upon the truth of impermanence so we live each moment of this life in gratitude and humility."

The dance attracts visitors from Japan and multigenerational families, who will also feast on the temple’s signature barbecue beef sticks, chicken yakitori and sukiyaki, the release said. There will be Spam musubi, saimin, shave ice and other popular local foods.

The Shin Buddhist temple is located at 902 University Ave. Call 949-1659 or email mhm@moiliilihongwanji.org.