EVENT:
Bon Dance Joy
with Noriko Nguyen
date:
November 14, 2026
TIME:
1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
LOCATION:
Yokohama Festival
Main Stage
Balboa Park
BON DANCE JOY
Dance Together. Celebrate Japanese Tradition.
Experience the joy of Japanese Bon Odori as Noriko Nguyen and Bon Dance Joy bring this beloved festival tradition to the Yokohama Festival!
Originating from Japan’s summer Obon celebrations, Bon Odori is a community dance that brings people together through music, movement, and shared traditions.
With easy-to-follow steps and lively music, everyone is invited to participate. No dance experience is necessary!
EVERYONE IS INVITED TO DANCE
Bon Odori is a traditional Japanese folk dance commonly performed during Obon, a time when families honor and remember their ancestors.
Dancers typically move together in a circle, following simple, repetitive movements that make it easy for people of all ages and abilities to join.
Today, Bon Odori remains a cherished part of Japanese summer festivals, bringing communities together through music, dance, and celebration.
At the Yokohama Festival, visitors can experience this tradition firsthand. Follow along, learn a few steps, and become part of the celebration!
ABOUT BON DANCE JOY.
Originally from Osaka, Japan, Noriko Nguyen now calls San Diego home, where she shares her passion for Japanese dance and culture through Bon Dance Joy.
Blending traditional Bon Odori with contemporary music, including J-pop, K-pop, and American pop, Noriko brings a fresh and welcoming energy to this centuries-old tradition.
Through community performances, online dance sessions, and instructional videos, Bon Dance Joy encourages people of all backgrounds to discover the fun of Japanese festival dancing.
Noriko’s approach is simple: everyone can dance, and everyone is welcome.
