Make Kauai Bon Dance your summer tradition when you stay at our Kauai vacation rentals. One of our top recommendations for free Kauai activities, there are nine weekends to choose from during June, July and August. Everyone is invited to this Kauai event that rotates around the island to a new location each week.
2018 Kauai Bon Dance Calendar
Event starts at 7:30pm and ends around 10:30pm.
Games, food booths and fun for the entire family.
- June 8-9, Kapaa Jodo Mission
- June 15-16, West Kauai Hongwanji Mission, Hanapepe
- June 22-23, Lihue Hongwanji Mission
- June 29-30, Waimea Shingon Mission
- July 6-7, Koloa Jodo Mission
- July 13-14, West Kauai Hongwanji Mission, Waimea
- July 20-21, Kapaa Hongwanji Mission
- July 27-28, Waimea Higashi Hongwanji Mission
- August 3-4, Kauai Soto Zen Temple, Hanapepe
Top Five Kauai Bon Dance Tips.
1. See this 500 year Japanese tradition that honors the spirits of ancestors. Under a tropical night sky, dancers wearing summer kimonos move in a circle to the beat of Taiko drums. The mood is joyous with people of all ages and backgrounds participating.
2. Dancing is not required or expected! You can watch from the sideline or join the circle.
3. Come hungry. During the Bon Dance the barbecue is fired up and plate dinners are served for a nominal fee. There is usually a rummage sale with homemade Japanese treats.
4. Bring the kids too. There are games for them to enjoy and Hawaii shave ice.
5. Take a short break from the crowds and can step inside the Buddhist temple hosting the event. You can admire the alter and perhaps see dancers preparing to join the circle. Before leaving, follow them back outside for this celebration of life.
This is a great way to spend a midsummer’s eve and meet locals. If you have been to a Bon Dance, please share your favorite experience.
Sharon Newcomer says
This looks like a lot of fun! We won’t be on Kauai until the 11th, does this end August 3 & 4th?
Ruthy says
We will be staying in Kauai next week and are interested in the June 10-11 show. Where is this in location to where we are staying? Which is the princeville/north shore area. Thanks!
JP says
Aloha Ruthy, We just updated the Bon Dance schedule for 2018. The event is held most Friday and Saturday nights into August. The first Bon Dance this year will be June 8-9 at the Kapaa Jodo Mission which is about a half-hour drive from Princeville. The next weekend (June 15-16) it will be in Hanapape at the West Kauai Hongwanji. That one is about 90 minutes from Princeville, but if you go Friday night you enjoy Hanapepe Art Night too. See you on Kauai soon! Aloha from Parrish Kauai
Rhonda says
We are coming In may 2017 and leaving June 5th.
What does this cost. Like could we have dinner one night there
JP says
Hi Rhonda, There is no charge to attend Bon Dance but the season normally begins after June 5th. If you are interested in our Kauai vacation rentals, we invite you to call us at 1-800-325-5701 or visit our website at http://parrishkauai.com. Enjoy your stay! Aloha from Parrish Kauai
jacqueline hoverson says
When are the Bon dances in June 2015?
Thanks,
Jacqueline
Rob says
Aloha Jacqueline, Thanks for your question! The schedule for the 2015 Bon Dance has recently been announced. See our post for details. This June it starts the weekend of June 5-6 (Friday/Saturday) and continues every Friday and Saturday night in summer until August 8. There is no Bon Dance on July 3-4. Have a great stay on Kauai! Aloha from the Parrish Kauai Team.
jacqueline hoverson says
Thanks for the reply. We are looking forward to our stay in Kauai. See you at the dance!
glenda says
what times are the Bon Dances on 7/26 & 7/27?
JP says
Aloha Glenda…usually a good time to be there is around 7:30pm. Parking can be an issue, so give yourself time to find safe parking. Enjoy!!