"Hands On" cultural workshop teaches about the real Hawaii

Na Lima Hana means many hands working, as this four-day event presents a multitude of cultural and health practitioners offering activities, demonstrations, entertainment and learning experiences.

Literally, many hands are working to teach and learn these fascinating skills. Learn all about lei-making, weaving with endemic plants, salt-making, drum-making, lomi lomi (traditional massage), lauhala weaving, kapa (tapa) making, carving, ancient chants, hula kahiko and the uses of kalo (taro).

Enjoy Hawaiian food and entertainment too. As part of the Na Lima Hana Festival, an ANA Grant workshop will take place (Oct. 26, 27 and 28) as well as a Hawaiian cultural conference organized by the HHLA Kauai on October 28. Many events are free of charge to the public.

Take part in hands-on demonstrations and learning sessions about Hawaii's rich cultural traditions, crafts and health practices including Hawaiian entertainment and food.

This year's theme, "kumu honua," means learning by going back to the source. All cultural practionners will convey the original sources of their knowledge, explaining how a particular cultural skill, craft, practice or tradition was taught to them; what was their source.

The Na Lima Hana Festival combines the former Hawaiiana Festival, which is about Hawaiian cultural practices and arts, and the former Malama Ola Festival, which is about health and healing practices.

Enjoy Hawaiian food and entertainment too. Many events are free of charge to the public.

Events are partially sponsored by the Hawaii Tourism Authority and Kauai County.

The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa is located in the Poipu Beach area of Kauai.  For more information, contact "Aunty" Stella Burgess, director of Hawaiian culture and community afrairs, Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa 808.240.6369 or stella.burgess@hyatt.com.  For a complete listing of events, visit or click on link:http://nalimahana.net