Launch The Lantern

Launch the Lantern Dinner

An exclusive fundraising event celebrating Obon on Sunday, August 16, 2026 starting at 6:30 p.m. Join us for an evening of reflection, community, and celebration under the stars at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens.

What is Obon? Obon is a Japanese tradition in which families welcome the spirits of their ancestors for a brief visit. On the final night these spirits are guided back to the afterlife, their journey illuminated by farewell lights. In many communities the lights take the form of paper lanterns floating on water. Families who have lost loved ones in the past year often send decorated boats to help transport their spirits.

This fundraising evening supports the Morikami’s 4-E’s: Education, Exhibitions, Emotional Well-Being Program, and Expansion. The program will feature sake and whiskey tastings, a sit-down dinner served indoors with dessert, a taiko performance on the terrace, and a personal lantern to decorate. The evening culminates with lanterns floating on the lake.

Tickets are $200 per person.