81st Anniversary Hiroshima–Nagasaki Commemoration
Join Louisville's annual Hiroshima–Nagasaki Commemoration, hosted by Interfaith Paths to Peace (IPP), on Saturday, August 8, at 7:00 p.m. at the pond at Thurman-Hutchins Park. This is a free, ticketless, all-ages event open to everyone, but RSVPs are encouraged: https://tinyurl.com/t8bnu29y
This year's gathering marks the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Around the world, communities observe these anniversaries with floating lantern ceremonies—a tradition rooted in East Asian cultures that symbolizes remembrance, hope, healing, and renewal.
At a time when division and the threat of nuclear conflict continue to shape our world, we invite our community to come together in hope and reaffirm our shared commitment to peace.
At a time when division and the threat of nuclear conflict continue to shape our world, this gathering offers an opportunity to come together in hope and say: Never Again.
Program highlights:
- Music by Bill Clark and more
- Spiritual reflections by a diverse representation of faith leaders, including “Ceremonial Sundance Chief” Steve McCullough
- Keynote speaker: Local artist and author Jill Baker will speak about her father Alfred S. Withrow's role in the development of the atomic bomb and its impact on her family.
- At dusk (approximately 8:45pm): a lantern-lighting ceremony on the pond.
A pre-event drum circle, "Circles for Peace" Drum Circle will take place beginning at 4:30pm. All are invited to participate!
NOTE: Parking is available on site, but there are no amenities. Please bring lawn chairs, blankets, water, snacks, and flashlights if you plan to stay after dusk.
This year's gathering marks the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Around the world, communities observe these anniversaries with floating lantern ceremonies—a tradition rooted in East Asian cultures that symbolizes remembrance, hope, healing, and renewal.
At a time when division and the threat of nuclear conflict continue to shape our world, we invite our community to come together in hope and reaffirm our shared commitment to peace.
At a time when division and the threat of nuclear conflict continue to shape our world, this gathering offers an opportunity to come together in hope and say: Never Again.
Program highlights:
- Music by Bill Clark and more
- Spiritual reflections by a diverse representation of faith leaders, including “Ceremonial Sundance Chief” Steve McCullough
- Keynote speaker: Local artist and author Jill Baker will speak about her father Alfred S. Withrow's role in the development of the atomic bomb and its impact on her family.
- At dusk (approximately 8:45pm): a lantern-lighting ceremony on the pond.
A pre-event drum circle, "Circles for Peace" Drum Circle will take place beginning at 4:30pm. All are invited to participate!
NOTE: Parking is available on site, but there are no amenities. Please bring lawn chairs, blankets, water, snacks, and flashlights if you plan to stay after dusk.
Where is it happening?
Thurman Hutchins Park, 3550 River Rd, Louisville, KY 40207-1022, United States, Indian Hills
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Host or PublisherInterfaith Paths to Peace
