Taken from our partner, JASM’s (the Japan America Society of Minnesota) website:

It’s that time of the year again! In collaboration with Como Park and the St. Paul-Nagasaki Sister City Committee (SPNSCC), JASM would like to invite all to take part in the largest Japan-related festival in Minnesota. The Annual Lantern Lighting Festival is reminiscent of the Obon holiday honoring the spirits of our ancestors. As such, it is a very important cultural and family event. This event is modeled after summer festivals held across Japan and offers everyone a chance to learn about such an important aspect of Japanese culture.
The Lantern Lighting Festival is fun for all ages! Bring the entire family for our main event of the summer! There will be performances by Mu Performing Arts, featuring the Mu-Min Chorus Mu-Daiko, and Mikaharu-kai Dance Group who will be performing the ‘Bon Odori’. Games and cultural demonstration, and of course, delicious Japanese food will be offered for everyone to enjoy! Please come and enjoy this important Japanese event with people who fondly remember festivals in Japan, and those who wish to experience one for the first time.

Event Information
Where: Como Zoo and Conservatory
When: Sunday, August 19th from 3:00pm to dusk.
Admission: $5 per person, $3 per child (3-12) & senior (age 65+). Children 2 & under are free.

Intinerary:
– 3:00 Gates & Exhibits Open
– 3:30 Performances Begin
– 7:30 Bon Odori
– 8:00 JASM Exhibits Close
– 8:15 Lantern Lighting
– 10:00 Last Shuttle Departs from Como Park