Friday, August 28, 2026 / Eugene
Tomorrow's Obon festival starts with drums made from whiskey barrels
The free 35th-anniversary gathering runs 1 to 7 p.m. at Yujin Gakuen with taiko, Bon Odori, food, games, crafts and origami.
Before Eugene's taiko groups had drums, they practiced on tires. The instruments they later built use whiskey barrels and cowhide, and those drums will be part of Saturday's 35th Obon and Taiko Festival at Yujin Gakuen Japanese Immersion School.
The free gathering runs from 1 to 7 p.m. at 2855 Lincoln Street. Eugene Taiko and Waka Daiko will perform, Bon Odori dancing is open to the community, and the afternoon includes five food vendors plus games, crafts and origami for children.
Obon centers remembrance of ancestors and the community around that remembrance. The school's PTO confirms the date and hours. Parking is limited; earlier organizer guidance asks people who can walk from nearby to leave on-site spaces for elders and visitors with accessibility needs.
Field notes
What changed: A fresh local report added first-hand history and current details for Saturday's 35th Obon and Taiko Festival.
Why it matters: The free event combines remembrance, performance and participatory dance in one of Lane County's established Japanese American traditions.
Who may be affected: Lane County residents interested in Japanese culture, live taiko, community dancing or a free all-ages event.