Jul 11, 2026
Ekoji Buddhist Temple Obon Festival 2026
Ekoji Obon runs July 11, 2026, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with bon odori, Nen Daiko, food booths, and a candlelight memorial garden ceremony. Tickets are $10; no sales at the gate.
Ekoji Buddhist Temple hosts its annual Obon Festival on Saturday, July 11, 2026, 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., at 6500 Lakehaven Lane, Fairfax Station, VA. The official page lists bon odori, Nen Daiko, youth taiko group Dounen, food, vendors, children's games, temple tours, and a candlelight memorial in the meditation garden.
Tickets and entry
Tickets are $10 per person (children 2 and under free), on sale from May 15, 2026. The temple notes limited quantities due to county regulations and no gate sales in 2026. Your e-receipt is your ticket; proceed to the pre-order line on arrival. The festival is rain or shine; no pets or tents. Folding chairs and blankets are welcome.
Schedule
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 5:00 p.m. | Gates open |
| 5:15 p.m. | Opening ceremony |
| 5:45 to 6:30 p.m. | Bon odori (first half) |
| 6:35 to 6:55 p.m. | Mark H Taiko Xperience |
| 7:15 to 7:55 p.m. | Nen Daiko |
| 7:55 to 8:35 p.m. | Bon odori (second half) |
| 8:45 to 9:00 p.m. | Candlelight service |
Food and planning
The menu includes spam musubi, somen, chirashizushi, edamame, shave ice, butter mochi, and beverages. Free parking is available on a first-come basis at Fairfax Baptist Church and Accotink Unitarian Church within walking distance; carpooling is encouraged.
Dance practice: In-person sessions on Sunday, June 14 and Sunday, July 5, 1:00 to 2:30 p.m., with a Zoom option listed on the temple site.
Memorial service: A hybrid Obon and Hatsubon service follows Sunday, July 12, 11:00 a.m. for families who lost relatives between July 2025 and July 2026.
When: July 11, 2026 (5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.)
Where: Ekoji Buddhist Temple, 6500 Lakehaven Lane, Fairfax Station, VA 22039
Purchase tickets and candle dedications on ekoji.org/obon-festival.
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