thank you sarah. One of the best oahu postings I've ever seen. I live here and your information is right on. I always forget to tell people about the Bon dances..they are on Friday and Saturday nights from late june to august. the schedule is printed in the paper. One of the best things at them is the food, so come hungry and sample all the local favorites.

There is no such thing as a cheap beachfront hotel in Waikiki. I would be very suspicious of any that describes itself as such. My favorite beachfront hotel is the Kaimana Beach Hotel. It's a hidden gem located away from the center of Waikiki but a nice 10 to 15 minute beachfront stroll to reach...

Thanks Lcuy, I love Oahu. I was wondering the food at these bon dances, do you purchase? Do they mean this for their members. I am not Asian so I try to have a low key presence at these dances. I have never seen food but do watch people walk in and out of what ever temple we are at. Do tell.

Sarah- <BR>The bon dances are basically fundraisers for the temples, so, yes! they want you to buy the food. Like any church bazar (sp?), it varies from temple to temple, but you'll often find fried noodles, sushi, spam musubi, teriyaki sticks, saimin, somen salad, some sort of local food plate, etc. <BR>Often there is a white elephant sale at the same time, but all the grandmas tend to get in line and scoop the good stuff early! <BR>It sounds like you have a good attitude. I am like you in that I don't join the dancing (mostly because I have 2 left feet), but I always encourage our kids and any out of town visitors to try. Watch for a while, then join in if you can without looking disrepectful. <BR>Members are sometimes hesitant to welcome outsiders until they can see you are not making fun or acting superior, but most are very happy to share their customs. A lot of the dancers meet and practice all year long, then spend the summer hitting ever Bon dance on the circuit. You can spot them by their matching kimono. <BR>Its good fun!

Thanks for the background now I can explain this to my nieces and nephew this summer when I take them to a bon dance. And now I think I really won’t dance knowing how long those women prepare...I sure would appreciate if you any other local info on events in August if you would post. I would never know this. I recently read about a festival of lanterns that has begun in the past few years. I know it is in the spring I believe. Most of us don't know about this stuff. Your Grandma comment was a hoot. I can just picture it.