Hawaii, United States — Events
Ukulele Festival Hawaii
The ukulele is surely Hawaii’s signature instrument, and its popularity today - within a diverse range of musical styles - is largely down to the efforts of one man, Roy Sakuma. In 1971, at a time when very few people were interested in the ukulele, Sakuma organized the 1st Annual Ukulele Festival, in an effort to show the world how the ukulele could be played, not just as a rhythmic addition to background music, but as a solo instrument of sophistication and virtuosity.
Aloha Festivals
The Aloha Festivals, celebrated on six islands in Hawaii - Oahu, Kauai, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Big Island - taken together, comprise the only statewide cultural festival in the United States. Established in 1946 (then known as Aloha Week), the purpose of the Aloha Festivals is to celebrate the music, dance, history and traditions that make Hawaii unique.
Moloka'i Hoe Canoe Race
Outrigger canoe racing is embedded in the culture of Hawaii, and each year the race, considered to be the world championship, attracts thousands of fans. The canoes form a large part of the way of life of the islanders and in the past the prestige allocated upon those who would win the race was enormous. Nowadays, although the symbolic nature of the victory remains, the festival enjoys a relative influx of tourist interest and media attention.
Kona Coffee Cultural Festival
Hawaii’s oldest food festival is celebrated in the heartland of American coffee country, the town of Kailua-Kona, from where the famous liqueur derives its name. The festival has numerous other associated events including parades, art exhibitions, races, golf and cultural workshops. Several coffee related activities such as tours of farms, brewing secrets, and competitions run throughout the festival.
World Invitational Hula Festival
This celebration of Hawaiian culture, customs, history, language and relationship to all natural things attracts many curious visitors from all over the world. With a number of events taking place across the three days there will be more than enough to entertain the whole family, and, of course, plenty of inspirational hula dancing for those willing to participate or just to relax and observe.
