This event will be held at Woodward Park near the Shinzen Japanese Garden. Obon festival is one of the most important events in the Japanese community which celebrates the joyous reunion with loved ones who have passed away. Ancestors' spirits are awakened and welcomed during Obon on their annual return to visit family and friends on Earth. Toro Nagashi marks the end of Obon with floating lanterns launched on the water to guide loved ones on their journey back to their spiritual land. This event is part of Searching for Democracy: California Reads Farewell to Manzanar.