Participants are encouraged to sign up for one of the workshops beforehand, hosted by AIRMW / Shubukai around the city to learn the dances on the roster for the 2026 BonFest on August 15th at the North Park Village Nature Center (5801 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60646).  Recommended for ages 10 and up.

Final performance:  Saturday, August 15th at the North Park Village Nature Center from 7:30pm.

Bon Odori is a type of Japanese folk (Minyo) dance made for people to come together to honor their ancestors, express their joy, respect, and feeling of community; to feel a connection with their ancestors and with everyone. The dances are simple and fun, and are typically performed during the Obon festival which occurs in mid to late summer. There are many dances which draw upon the different regions of Japan, and  depict the area's history and specialization. Shubukai has collaborated with Kimiei Fujima Sensei from Shizuoka and Ageha Bijou Sensei from the Nihon Bon Odori Association, based in Tokyo. 

The patterned movements are repetitive and each lesson will introduce some of the dances on the roster for BonFest. For the lessons, please make sure to wear comfortable clothing; Yukata is not required, however no bare feet, please wear tabi or clean socks and shoes. Some lessons could take place outside, weather permitting. Please bring your own water to keep hydrated.

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For questions email rika@airmw.org