HONOLULU’S 66 year-old Aloha Festivals is the oldest and largest Hawaiian cultural celebration in the United States. What is known today as Aloha Festivals was created in 1946, as Aloha Week - a cultural celebration of Hawai'i’s music, dance and history intended to perpetuate our unique traditions. A group of former Jaycees - known as the Jaycees Old-timers of Hawai'i - had the vision to create a public celebration to honor Hawai'i’s cosmopolitan heritage, yet created a celebration which has itself become a state-wide tradition.
Aloha Week became Aloha Festivals in 1991. Aloha Festivals has become a celebration of our Hawaiian culture. Integrated into the culture are many island traditions and customs of each of the Hawaiian islands. Thousands of volunteers labor together each year to stage the events, which are attended statewide by nearly a million people Eit is a festival truly of the people of Hawai'i by the people of Hawai'i. The festivals are funded through the sale of Aloha Festivals ribbons and merchandise, and via corporate and private donations. As a 501©3 corporation, donations are tax deductible and welcomed.
All events are free and open to the public! Our events are supported by Aloha Festival Ribbons and Powerband sales.
2012 Royal Court Investiture
Thursday, September 6, 2012, 3:00 pm
Hilton Hawaiian Village
Traditional chant and hula highlight this annual event as the 2012 Alii receive their royal symbols of reign during ceremonies on the grounds of the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Free admission.
2012 Opening Ceremony
Thursday, September 6, 2012, 5:00 pm
Royal Hawaiian Center, Royal Grove
This ceremony marks the official beginning of the 2012 Aloha Festivals event on Oahu. Traditional hula and chant introduce our Royal Court on the grounds of the Royal Hawaiian Center's Royal Grove. Free admission.
2012 Waikiki Hoolaulea
Saturday, September 15, 2012, 7:00pm
On Kalakaua Avenue between Lewers & Kapahulu Avenues
Celebrating its 60th year and the 2012 theme of Ho'onui Ike, the largest block party will kick off with the arrival of the Royal Court. Multiple stages of entertainment, lots of food, lei vendors and hawaiian crafters will be spread along the world famous Kalakaua Avenue. Free admission.
2012 Aloha Festivals Floral Parade
Saturday, September 22, 2012, 9:00am
From Ala Moana Park, along Kalakaua Avenue to Kapiolani Park
A colorful equestrian procession of female and male pau riders, extravagant floats with cascades of Hawaiian flowers, hula Halau and marching bands will brighten Kalakaua Avenue from Ala Moana Park to Kapiolani Park. This is a "must see" event! Free admission.
AFFILIATED EVENT:
The Pearlridge Keiki Hoolaulea
Saturday, September 8, 2012, 10am - 3pm
Pearlridge Center
Presented by Pearlridge center. Phone: 488-0981
More Information : alohafestivals.com/index.html