2nd Ola Ka Ha Hawaiian cultural celebration outside Honolulu’s Iolani Palace, March 29
This Sunday, popular Hawaii artists and notable area hula troupes will convene on the grounds of Iolani Palace in downtown Honolulu for an all-day family-friendly, free-to-the-public concert and showcase of Hawaiian culture.
The 2nd annual Ola Ka Ha (which translates loosely to the essence of the Hawaiian people lives on) celebration includes live music, hula performances as well as art, craft and food booths.
The lineup includes multiple Na Hoku Hanohano award-winning musicians including acoustic duo Waipuna (Kale Hannahs and Matt Sproat), Jerry Santos of Olomana, artist/composer Sean Naauao, vocalist and Ola Ka Ha event organizer Mailani, artist Weldon Kekauoha and slack-key guitarist Patrick Landeza.
Huewa with Josh Tatofi, Mele Apana, Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu and three hula halau (dance troupes)— Halau Na Kamalei O Lililehua , Halau O Ke A Alii Ku Makani and Halau Ka Liko Pua O Kalaniakea—will also perform.
In addition to the entertainment, attendees are also encouraged to tour Iolani Palace and learn about its history. Built in 1882 by King David Kalakakaua, the palace was the royal residence until the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893. You can read more about the palace, ongoing renovations and efforts to restore lost and stolen royal artifacts in HAWAII Magazine’s June 2012 feature: “Restoring the Palace.”
Usually closed on Sundays, the palace will remain open, offering self-guided audio tours with a final entry time of 4 p.m. Tours are regular price for visitors, but free for Hawaii residents.
Though the event itself is not a fundraiser, a portion of the food and craft proceeds will go to the Friends of Iolani Palace, a non-profit organization that works to preserve the history of the Hawaiian monarchy and manages palace activities.
For more information about Iolani Palace or the Ola Ka Ha event, follow the links.
