History of Hoʻolau Kanaka

“E kolo ana no i ēwe no ke i ēwe.” 

Rootlets seek and nurture each other.

As Kanaka Hawaiʻi, it has always been a part of our culture for our people to gather… to come together in seeking to nurture each other. The act of gathering holds great importance for the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of Native Hawaiians and the broader population of Hawaiʻi. It cultivates a sense of community and deep pride in the culture and shared identity. Coming together strengthens the commitment to perpetuating and respecting cultural practices, nourishing, and empowering the Lāhui.

And thus, Hoʻolau Kanaka Oʻahu Ka ʻŌnohi o Nā Kai was born. This name translates to “the people gather; Oʻahu, the gem of the oceans”.

Hoʻolau Kanaka is presented by the Puaʻāinahau Foundation, Inc. & Hālau Nā Mamo o Puʻuanahulu, and it began with a desire to create more opportunities for audiences to share in and embrace hula and Hawaiian culture here on our home island of Oʻahu.

The very first Hoʻolau Kanaka took place in 2015 in the hālau’s “backyard” at Keʻehi Lagoon. It was unique as one of the only non-competitive avenues bringing together nā hālau, as well as some of Hawai’i’s master performers, cultural practitioners & educators, and admired and beloved members of our community.

In the nearly 10 years since, our festival has expanded to include: many award winning hālau hula; Nā Hōkū Hanohano award winning musicians; demonstrations and hands-on participation with experts in various Hawaiian arts, crafts, and traditional practices; local craft vendors and designers; Hawaiian games; a country store; ʻono local food booths; and more!

We can’t wait to welcome you to our festival & share our love for the Hawaiian culture with you through this day of educational enjoyment.

E kipa mai kākou!