Ka Hula Piko Hula Festival
Of the many vivid images the word Hawaii brings to mind, one of the most enduring this that of the hula dancer, fluidly and gracefully weaving stories out of thin air. More than just a dance, the hula is an expression of respect and awe for Hawaii’s natural wonders.
Tip:
The festival is one of Molokai’s most popular events. If you wish to attend, be sure to book transportation and lodging well ahead of time!
Molokai, an island that hasn’t changed much since early Polynesians first settled here, it is believed by some to be the birthplace of the hula. Cultural pride runs deep on this island, where nearly forty percent of the population (of merely 8,000) can claim direct Hawaiian lineage.
And so it would stand to reason that one of the most authentic and truly wonderful hula events in Hawaii would be staged here. Known as the Molokai Ka Hula Piko Festival (“Molokai, the center of the dance”), the festival is a wonderful opportunity to learn the origins of this remarkable tradition.
As legend has it, the goddess Laka first came to Molokai centuries ago, telling timeless stories and sharing spiritual wisdom through her dances. She taught the natives of Molokai here graceful movements at a sacred hill in Kaana – where it is believed her spirit still remains today.
Not far from that spot, at the Papohaku Beach Park in Kaluakoi, the annual festival welcomes one and all with a variety of hula performances, as well as chanting, musical entertainment, traditional Hawaiian crafts and games, and food booths filled with local favorites.
The event takes place on the third weekend in May.
