The City of Yokosuka is scheduled to host its annual Bon Odori dance festival Sunday, Aug. 17, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Shiyakushomae Park, just a short walk from Womble Gate.

Shiyakushomae Park, or City Hall Park, is located across the street from Yokosuka City Hall near Blue Street.

Now in its 14th year, the Yokosuka Citizens’ Bon Odori Festival has become a late-summer fixture in the city.

This free public event celebrates Japan’s Bon season. Bon is a time when families and communities gather to honor the spirits of their ancestors through dance, music and food.

Bon Odori, literally “Bon dance,” is a centuries-old Japanese summer tradition celebrating this time. Participants dance around a raised wooden platform, called a yagura, as taiko drums and folk songs set the rhythm. The steps are simple and repetitive, so even newcomers can easily follow along and join the fun. Many attendees will wear a light, colorful summer kimono called a yukata, though casual dress is perfectly fine.

Yokosuka’s Bon Odori is free to participate. There is no sign-up or registration and experience is not needed. Children who join the dancing will receive Japanese snacks during the evening’s intermission.

For more information, please visit the City of Yokosuka’s official website: https://www.city.yokosuka.kanagawa.jp/event/2150/yokosukashiminbonodori2025.html