Skilled Crafts of Ancient Hawaii

Date: August 8, 2005
Contact: Lorna Akima, [phone] X 21
Contact: Ben Saldua, [phone] X 26

Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site will celebrate its 33rd anniversary of its establishment as a NationalHistoric Site with a cultural festival on Saturday August 13th, at 7:00 a.m., & Sunday August 14th, at 9:30 a.m., and ending both days at 3:00 p.m. 2005.

Theme: Ke Kulana No’eau O Ka Wa Kahiko (Skilled Crafts of Ancient Hawaii)

The stone Heiau at Kawaihae is one of the last major sacred structures built in Hawaii before outside influences altered traditional life permanently. Constructed in 1790-91 by Kamehameha I. Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site is a place where living history is perpetuated. On Saturday, August 13th, a formal assembly conducted by Na Papa Kanaka o Pu'ukohola comprised of chiefs, warriors, and other key components will begin at 7:00 a.m., and march down from Pu'ukohola to the papa (flats) fronting the Heiau, where ho'okupu (offerings) will be received, and traditional dance performed. Demonstrations and cultural workshop activities will follow the ho'okupu rituals. On Sunday, August 14th, at 9:30 a.m. the festival will begin with a continuation of the craft workshops end at 3:00 p.m.. Park Superintendent Daniel Kawaiaea Jr. said more than 25 craft workshop and demonstrations will be available for visitors to participate in. Hula Kahiko (Ancient Hula), Lei Haku Ame Lei Wili (Ancient Lei making), Hana Hu (Making Spinning Tops), Hana Kapa Kuiki (Quilting), Kukuweke La'i (Rain Cape), Pahu (Drums), Ulana Lauhala (Lauhala Weaving), Hana 'Upena Kiloi (net making), 'Ohe Hanu Ihu (Nose Flute), Ku'i 'Ai (Poi Pounding), Kahili (Fly Brush), Holo Wa'a (Canoe Rides), Kakau (Tattoo), Hawaiian games, and more. Musical implements and songs will be offered.

The public is invited to join the festivities with only one stipulation, that each visitor learns at least one craft before leaving the area to help preserve a part of the Hawaiian culture. Bring refreshments and lunch if you plan to stay the entire day. It is also recommended that comfortable clothing be worn, and that you use some type of sunscreen. This event will take place at Pelekane below Pu'ukohola Heiau in Kawaihae. Each year the festival is made possible through the cooperation of the Hawaii Natural History Association, Na Aikane o Pu'ukohola Heiau, Waimea Hawaiian Civic Club, Na Papa Kanaka o Pu'ukohola Heiau, Hawaii Tourism Authority and Department of the Interior - National Park Service and many friends of the park. This event is free of charge.