Hundreds of people took part in Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site’s 42nd anniversary celebration and annual Hookuikahi i Puukohola Establishment Day Hawaiian Cultural Festival held Saturday and Sunday in South Kohala.
The festival featured Na Papa Kanaka o Puukohola Heiau performing the Hookupu and Hookuikahi ceremonies on Saturday followed by festivities that also continued on Sunday.
Each year the festival’s theme is “Ke Kulana Noeau o Ka Wa Kahiko,” translated meaning “the culture of ancient Hawaii” and the subtheme for this year’s event was “Aua ia e kama e kona moku,” translated meaning “we all hold on to the traditions for our children and our land.”
More than 20 arts and craft workshops and demonstrations were available for visitors to experience and learn hands-on, including lei haku ame lei wili (ancient lei making), hana kapa kuiki (quilting), Hawaiian games, and holo waa (canoe rides), among many others.
This free public event was made possible through the cooperation of the Hawaii Pacific Parks Association, Na Papa Kanaka o Puukohola Heiau, the Royal Order of Kamehameha — Kohala Chapter, the National Park Service, and many friends of the park.