Kauai's Mokihana Festival Sept. 19 - 25 A Hawaiian Cultural Explosion

Once every year, in the Fall, a Hawaiian cultural explosion erupts from Kauai's ancient volcano with a week long series of events that range from Hula and chant to Hawaiian music composer competition, lei making, Hawaiian church services and concerts.

"Ha"--  Hawaiian for the breath of life--  is the substance that founder Nathan Kalama injects into this festival which is now in its 18th year on Kauai. A musician, composer, kumu, kupuna and kahuna, Nathan Kalama is the strength and endurance behind these colorful, enchanting events. For a complete schedule go to: http://www.maliefoundation.org/mokihanafest.html

  Hawaii's rich culture is mined for this week-long festival. Designed to appeal to locals and to visitors, the festival showcases traditional Hawaiian forms of music and dance. Three evenings are devoted to hula competitions, and a composing contest awards prizes for both Hawaiian-language and English pieces. During the day, festival-goers can take tours of sacred sites and of areas significant to the development of Hawaiian customs and traditions. Locally-produced crafts and food are available, too.  

With a mission to perpetuate Hawaiian culture, contemporary Hawaiian cultural events are held throughout the year coorinated by the Malie Foundation that include but are not limited to ongoing workshops supporting the annual theme Year of `Olelo Hawaii.

For more info about the Maile Foundation see: http://www.maliefoundation.org/