Kishin Daiko delivers a high-flying performance.
Uchiwa in hand, Shane Ciabattoni enjoys a view from above the dancing crowd.
3-year-old Ellie Naya has the steps down as mom Christine looks on.
Watching the flight at the ring toss.
Joining the circle were Nisei Week Queen candidates Amy Kubo of the ESGVJCC (left) and Gardena Evening Optimists’Anita Komatsu.
Whipping up a big batch of the community center’s famous yakisoba.
Yukata-clad Mattie, 5, focused on the dancing before cooling off with some refreshing shave ice.
Rev. Nobuko Miyoshi officiates during a Manto-e service, in honor of loved ones who have passed over the last year.
Photos by MIKEY HIRANO CULROSS/Rafu Shimpo

The West Covina Buddhist Temple held its 54th annual Obon Festival on Saturday, at the East San Gabriel Valley Japanese Community Center in West Covina.

The mood of the day was buoyed by the attendance and enthusiasm, both of which were back to pre-pandemic levels.

During the Manto-e service, Rev. Nobuko Miyoshi led the Buddhist chant and reminded attendee of the meaning and value of Obon.

“This is an opportunity to communicate with family who have passed,” she said. “This is an important time for all of us to feel a strong and pro-found connection to our loved ones.”

The weather was most definitely of the summer variety, but not unusually warm, and the cooling at dusk made for a beautiful evening.

After the prayer service, Kishin Daiko got the festivities off to a rollicking start with a performance, then members of the troupe helped keep time from atop the centrally-placed yagura during the Bon Odori.

Guests enjoyed plenty of delicious food, including the legendary ESGVJCC chicken teriyaki, along with refreshments, games and artistic exhibits.