WESTPORT — The Japan Society of Fairfield County returned to Jesup Green Saturday with a free festival that featured dance, song and the trappings of Japanese culture and customs.

“I’m so glad that we could gather in person again,” said guest of honor Masanari Taniai, counsel with the Japanese Consulate of New York, after the festival was suspended due to COVID.

The late summer festival was partially held in honor of Bon Odori, a dance celebration that welcomes back the spirits of the dead for the Obon holiday.

“Ubon is an important time to come together as families and as community,” Taniai said.

The beloved New York Taiko Aiko Kai drummers returned, along with experts in print and calligraphy, and various vendors featuring traditional Japanese crafts.

Jackie Alexander, president of the society, expressed her appreciation to the town for welcoming the event back.

“The festival is about community and we are here to celebrate it,” she said.

Diane Barton of Stamford was among the visitors to the event.

“I think it’s a great way for the two countries to get to know each other better and form a better understanding,” she said.