This was submitted by  Ella Tamny and Coleen Uchida-Tamny from Los Angeles County, California, for Discover Nikkei’s Nima-kai Traditions: Matsuri photo activity.

*****

Even though Ella wasn't even walking yet, she felt the beat & spirit of the Obon Odori music and wanted to join the dancers.  Having just moved up to the Bay Area, I was thrilled to attend this festival in San Francisco to feel connected to my family.

Photo credit: Mark Tamny