Drummer and dancers at Bon Odori festival, Seattle, July 1977

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Image of Drummer and dancers at Bon Odori festival, Seattle, July 1977 — a2000.107.098.19.01

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Drummer and dancers at Bon Odori festival, Seattle, July 1977

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During the summer of 1932, the Seattle Buddhist Church held the city's first Bon Odori festival. Bon Odori is a Japanese dance which is part of the observance of Obon, a Buddhist memorial service. The joyful dance, which celebrates the Buddhist tradition of selfless giving, expresses gratitude to departed family members. Over the years, the festival grew to include flower and craft exhibits, food booths and other activities.

This photograph shows a drummer playing a taiko drum as the line of dancers moves past him at the 1977 Bon Odori festival in Seattle. The drummer and dancers are wearing traditional Japanese clothing.

ID Number: 2000.107.098.19.01

Date: 1977

Creator(s): Miller, Robert H., Photographer

Physical Description: 1 photograph : b&w ; 10 x 8 in.

Credit: MOHAI, Seattle Post-Intelligencer Collection, 2000.107.098.19.01, photo by Robert H. Miller

Subjects: Chinatown International District, Asian American, Religion and Spirituality, Celebrations, Performing Arts and Music