In a vibrant display of community pride, a small town gathered this past weekend to celebrate the spirit of hula and ohana.
The energy and aloha at the intersection of Kaumualii Highway and Papalina Road was palpable this past Saturday as the community gathered at the Kalaheo Neighborhood Center for the Kalaheo Guava Country Celebration, along with a parade to honor the Halau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leinaala, the Merrie Monarch men and women, and Miss Aloha Hula 2025, Jaedyn Janae Puahaulani Pavao.
Hundreds gathered along Papalina Road to demonstrate their support, including Kauai Mayor Derek S.K. Kawakami, who participated in the parade mounted on horseback. The large and overwhelming support brought Pavao to tears for a brief moment. She goes on to explain the intense pride she feels in being able to represent both Kauai and Niihau.
“This is a great turnout, and it is a blessing,” said Pavao. “Kalaheo showed up, and it’s great that we got to make history today. I am overwhelmed by the support, and Kauai has not ever failed to show me that. From before I even took the stage at Merrie Monarch, I felt this overwhelming support,” she said,
“I came home to a warm welcome from Kauai, and I could feel the love, and today I am feeling that same love, but I just know Kauai people are here for each other; we support one another, and that’s the true meaning of aloha.”
The community enjoyed an array of activities, including live music, hula dancing, games, and an assortment of baked goods from the Country Store. Additionally, attendees enjoyed local cuisine, and children got a chance to engage with the horse and enjoy hay rides.
Community member Mary Williamson said she was excited to see a large gathering in Kalaheo but was not expecting to see eight cement mixer trucks.
“We can’t remember when was the last time Kalaheo had a parade,” she said, “Other towns and cities across the country, part of their identity is their sports team, and that’s what puts them on the map, but in Kalaheo, it’s our Halau that puts us on the map, so this is fantastic.”
After the parade, the large crowd of about 500 began the celebration. Pavao emphasized how immensely grateful she is to her community and all the support they’ve shown.
“We’re going to be eating good food with good company and letting the kids enjoy hayrides and horse rides, and it’s all about fellowship and being together as one,” she added. My message to this community and everyone is: Thank you, said Pavao as she teared up,” Seeing everyone come out and come together is what it’s all about, the true meaning of ohana and being here for one another.
“Today is all about gratitude and having a grateful heart,” she added, “I truly, in this journey, could never thank everybody enough. So let’s continue to be here for one another, support one another, and remember to always give thanks to everybody who has played a part in everyone’s journey.”
The evening ended with lots of laughter, aloha, hula, and love. Leaving a lasting mark on the Kalaheo community.
