Stockton Buddhist Church’s Cultural and Food Bazaar

The bazaar will include taiko performances.

STOCKTON — Buddhist Church of Stockton, 2820 Shimizu Dr. in Stockton, will hold its annual Cultural and Food Bazaar on Saturday, Aug. 1, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, Aug. 2, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday starts off with the sound of taiko drums, which will signal the start of activities that include cultural demonstrations of traditional classical dance, martial arts, and displays of Asian arts and crafts. Featured performances include Stockton Bukkyo Taiko, shigin (Japanese spoken word), minyo dance, Sacramento Taiko, Stockton Judo and Stockton Kendo. There will also be crafts on display and for sale. This takes place in the Social Hall.

The Bon Odori is scheduled on opening day of the bazaar at 7 p.m. Members of the church celebrate in traditional Japanese costume while performing traditional celebration dances including the use of fans and kachi kachi (castanets) as they celebrate remembrance of ancestors and loved ones who have left. It has become a homecoming for families and friends.

Food will be offered both in the Social Hall and outside along with games for the kids and the popular plant sales tent. Food offerings include SBT’s award-winning teriyaki along with traditional sushi as well as udon and somen noodles. Other delights include tempura, kushiyaki barbecue oysters and Asia Dogs, plus baked goodies and refreshments from soda to beer.

The public is encouraged so come out and celebrate and dance. So enjoy the arts, play the games and of course, dine on the food. As always, free admission and parking on hand.

For more information, call (209) 466-6701, email buddhist@sbcglobal.net or visit http://stocktonbuddhisttemple.org.