Festivals in Hawaii

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

The Hawaiian Islands are known for their mild climates, breathtaking views and local hospitality. This unbeatable combination makes Hawaii one of the most popular vacation destinations in the United States. A visit to Hawaii during one of its many festivals and annual events make for a truly memorable vacation.

The most widely recognized festival in Hawaii is the Aloha Festival. Held in late summer, this event takes place each year for two entire months and encompasses six Hawaiian Islands, celebrating the culture and heritage unique to Hawaii and its people. There are hundreds of activities throughout the festival and include traditional dances and the mix of Asian and Western influence on Hawaiian dance. Visitors enjoy a wide range of local cuisine at the countless luaus and banquets held during the event. Each island holds a public coronation ceremony that pays tribute to the longstanding tradition of ruling monarchs. Floral parades highlighting the local histories and cultures unique to each island are held during the festival.

HulaFest is a weekend event held each year to celebrate the native Hula dance. Local artists and musicians celebrate this uniquely Hawaiian dance via live performances. Demonstrations are available for those wanting to learn new dances or beginners enjoying their first experience with Hula. Throughout the festival, visitors will enjoy local foods and crafts at the dozens of vendors who set up at the event each year. The Hula Festival is a treat for all ages and includes games and hands-on experience for children.

Each spring, Hawaii hosts the annual World Fire Knife Dance Competition. This unique festival draws thousands of visitors from around the world each year to witness and compete in one of the most unusual forms of dance known today. The fire knife dance was used in ancient days to encourage warriors before a battle. The best competitors from around the world compete for an entire weekend, displaying new and unique additions to this traditional Samoan dance.

Each year tens of thousands of visitors flock to Honolulu during the summer to experience the Taste of Honolulu festival. Local chefs and restaurants demonstrate some of their famous recipes and cooking techniques throughout the event. Food and wine tasting are enjoyed in this carnival like atmosphere that includes rides, games and musical performances sure to please the entire family.

Each October the town of Lahaina on the island of Maui holds a celebration called Halloween in Lahaina. Thousands of costumed performers and spectators take to the streets to celebrate in a Mardi Gras fashion. Local businesses hold costume contests and haunted houses throughout the festival as visitors enjoy music and dancing well into the night.

The Ka Molokai MakaHiki Festival located on the island Molokai celebrates the local traditions native to this small island. Held each January, the festival includes traditional dances and ceremonies that have been passed down from generation to generation. Competitions and games are held throughout the event highlighting some of Molokais most revered and ancient traditions.

Hawaiian festivals offer vacationers an opportunity to enjoy local customs and traditions. Festivals that are unique to each of Hawaiis islands delight thousands of visitors each year.