30 Years of Native Hawaiian Culture-Based Education: A Community Celebration

This free, public event will celebrate three decades of commitment to Native Hawaiian culture-based education in Hawaiʻi. The event will feature authentic Hawaiian music and hula performances from respected local practitioners, providing participants with opportunities to experience traditional mele and dance in a community setting.

Cultural practitioners will lead hands-on demonstrations and activities, including poi pounding, where participants can learn the traditional process of preparing this staple Hawaiian food while understanding its cultural significance. Additional cultural activities will include:

• Lauhāla weaving
• Lei-making
• Storytelling sessions

These activities will connect participants to Hawaiian traditions and values.

Family-friendly activities designed for keiki will include interactive learning stations, traditional games, craft activities, and educational demonstrations that make Hawaiian culture accessible and engaging for younger generations.

Informational booths will provide resources about Hawaiian culture-based education programs, early childhood education opportunities, language revitalization efforts, and community support services. These booths will serve as recruitment touchpoints for KOKA programs while offering valuable information to families seeking culturally grounded educational opportunities.

The event will be entirely free to attend, removing financial barriers and ensuring that all community members can participate in this celebration of Hawaiian culture and education. This approach aligns with KOKA's mission to strengthen families, enrich communities, and perpetuate culture through accessible, high-quality programming.