Programs
Nā Hanana Kūhelu — Ceremonies and Protocol
The Canoe Arrival Ceremony initiates the festival, symbolizing unity as traditional canoes bring in cultural representatives from various Pacific nations. The Opening Ceremony launches the festivities with performances, speeches, and a Parade of Nations. An Ecumenical Service adds a spiritual aspect, uniting attendees in reflection and prayer. The Closing Ceremony concludes the event, celebrating achievements with performances and expressions of gratitude. Together, these ceremonies highlight the festival’s dedication to fostering unity and respect among its diverse participants.
Waʻa — Canoe Arrival Ceremony
Hana Noʻeau — Heritage Arts
The heritage arts are a dynamic celebration of Pacific Island cultures, featuring a diverse array of traditional and contemporary artistic expressions. Through vibrant exhibitions, interactive workshops, and engaging daily shows, the program provides a platform for artists and cultural practitioners to showcase both traditional and contemporary crafts of the Pacific Islands. With space to foster cross-cultural understanding, festival-goers receive a immersive experience that highlights the rich tapestry of Pacific Island traditions.
Meaʻai — Culinary Arts
Hōʻikeʻike — Performing Arts
Renowned artists from various nations will showcase traditional dances, music, and contemporary performances, offering a captivating journey through rhythmic drumming, graceful dance movements, and indigenous melodies. Emphasizing the importance of cultural preservation, the festival fosters dialogue and unity among diverse communities, showcasing the enduring power of performing arts in bridging gaps and preserving the rich heritage of the Pacific.
Hōʻike Kiʻi — Visual Arts
Featuring a vibrant fusion of drawing, painting, prints, sculptures, photography, and multimedia presentations, the visual arts program highlights the evolving nature of Pacific art. With a focus on the intersection of tradition and innovation, this program provides an immersive and cross-cultural experiences across art expressions, fostering a sense of shared humanity through the universal language of art. The Visual Arts Program will feature kaha kiʻi (drawing), pena kiʻi (painting), lau kāpala (printmaking), sculptures/3D work, photography, and multimedia/installations.
Regenerating Oceania Exhibit
Moananuiākea — Pacific Conversations & Cultural Exchange
Enjoy three days of enriching and inspirational experiences celebrating our shared Pacific Heritage!
MORNINGS: Kalākaua Ballroom B – Level 4
Tuesday, June 11: Pacific Sovereignty Plenary: Keynote, Dr. Jamaica Osorio; Indigenous Youth Declaration; Panel: “Tradition, Tourism, Technology” (Tahiti, Niue, Australia, Palau)
Wednesday, June 12: Pacific Dance Exchange: Large group learning of Pacific dance movements; Pacific Song Exchange: Large group singing, string bands, drumming; Pacific Games Exchange: Large group activities of balance, strength, dexterity and friendly competition.
Thursday, June 13: Pacific Life Plenary: Panel: “Rising Seas and Refugees” (Tuvalu, Marshalls, Solomons, Kiribati); Hawaiian Dances of Climate Change; Keynote, Pwo Navigator Nainoa Thompson
AFTERNOONS: Conference Rooms 305-307 & Liliʻu Theater Room 310 – Level 3
Each afternoon offers an array of dynamic presentations and workshops; and a series of extraordinary performances in the Liliu Theater (Room 310).
Nā Hana Pākuʻi — Symposia
In addition to its main artistic events, the Festival includes strategic supplementary programs like symposia/conferences, workshops, masterclasses, educational forums, and panel discussions. These initiatives offer in-depth exploration of traditional crafts, artistic techniques, and cultural issues, promoting skill development, knowledge exchange, and meaningful conversations among thought leaders, artists, and community members. These programs support the festival’s mission to enhance cultural understanding, sustainability, and the preservation of Pacific heritage, ensuring a comprehensive and impactful celebration of the region's diversity.
NOAA Science On a Sphere
"Protecting Oceania” – Pacific Philosophers Conference
Strategic Programs by The Pacific Community (SPC)
Auxiliary Programs
Hale Building Workshop at Kapukapuākea
Family Day in Nature at the Hawaiʻi Nature Center