Hearts were as warm as the weather Saturday and Sunday, as Zenshuji Buddhist Temple in Little Tokyo hosted in 66th Obon Carnival.
Remembrance of loved ones past was followed each day by entertainment, martial arts and fitness demonstrations, community groups, raffle prizes and a white elephant sale.
Entertainment on Saturday included the bands Kewpiez and Gurukuns, Zenshuji Zendeko (taiko), singer Kochihira Takane, and Zen Aerobics. Entertainment on Sunday included Shorinji Kempo (martial arts), Bando Hidesomi and students (Japanese classical dance), L.A. Koto Ensemble featuring Yuki Yasuda and students, Zenshuji Zendeko, and the band Umamix.
Of course, there was plenty of tasty food available, including shave ice, chirashizushi and Zenshuji’s famous chicken teriyaki, which sold briskly both days.
Dancing wrapped the festivities each evening. The lead dancers were June Miyamoto Donovan of Terminal Islanders on Saturday and Bando Hidesomi and her students on Sunday.