PO‘IPU — A week of festivities honoring the birthday and birthplace of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana‘ole, one of Hawai‘i’s beloved monarchs, begins tomorrow and will run until March 30 in the Po‘ipu area. Prince Kuhio was in line for succession
PO‘IPU — A week of festivities honoring the birthday and birthplace of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalaniana‘ole, one of Hawai‘i’s beloved monarchs, begins tomorrow and will run until March 30 in the Po‘ipu area.
Prince Kuhio was in line for succession of the throne before the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown. Kuhio was known for his work in perpetuating the native Hawaiian culture and preserving native Hawaiian practices. Serving in the U.S. Congress for 10 years, Kuhio led the effort to establish the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act. He was called Ke Ali‘i Makaaiana — Prince of the People.
Most events are free of charge to the public with many activities taking place at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort and Spa.
Tomorrow through Thursday events include native Hawaiian cultural teaching and demonstrations including a guided hike on the Makawehi sand dunes Sunday, as well as classes and demonstrations Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday on lauhala bracelet making (small fee), coconut frond weaving and lei making. On March 28 renowned Hawaiian entertainers begin performances at 8 p.m. on the Seaview Terrace at the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort and Spa.
On March 29 the early morning starts with Hawaiian protocol ceremonies at the Grand Hyatt. At 10 a.m. commemorative ceremonies organized by the Royal Order of Kamehameha are held at Kuhio’s birthplace, Prince Kuhio Park on Lawa‘i Road.
Ceremonies feature dance, chant and the offering of ho‘okupu (gifts) by various native Hawaiian representatives. After the ceremony, visitors and residents may attend numerous activities between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the Grand Hyatt.
A Hawaiian village atmosphere is re-created and cultural demonstrations provide opportunities to interpret the Hawaiian culture. Demonstrations and lectures are given by some of Hawai‘i’s most highly regarded artists such as quilters, weavers, wood carvers, pohaku (stone) carvers, feather arts and tapa makers.
From 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., March 30, the Prince Kuhio Celebration Lu‘au (discounted fee) will be hosted by the Grand Hyatt featuring introduction of members of the Royal Order of Kamehameha, along with entertainment by Hawai‘i’s well-known falsetto singer Nicky Castillo.
Contact: Stella Burgess, director of Hawaiian culture and community relations, Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort and Spa, 240-6369. This event is sponsored in part by Kaua‘i County and the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority. Event information also located at poipubeach.org/visitor_info/festivals. Event dates and times are subject to change.
