Luana Kawelu, 79, took over as president of the Merrie Monarch Festival after her mom, Dottie Thompson, who was instrumental in reviving the event in the 1970s, died in 2010.
With the crowning of the 67th festival queen and court on Saturday, March 16, we take a look back at 1999, a pivotal year for the historic event.
Stuff your face with authentic food while soaking in the cultures of the Islands. From hula and Chinese lion dances to taiko and opera, this list of 21 ethnic festivals on O‘ahu won’t disappoint.
Hurricane threats, new fees and money troubles have suddenly forced some of Honolulu’s decades-old ethnic festivals to pivot and change course in the past few years.
Kapi‘olani Regional Park is somewhat of an anomaly: It is managed by the city but governed by a trust.
The second annual event brought a taste of Italy to Honolulu with a mix of authentic Italian food, drinks, performances and a showcase of European luxury cars.
July 2018 marked the second year, in the festival’s 40-year run, that it was held at historic ‘Iolani Palace.
Field Notes explores Honolulu’s vast and varied scenes and subcultures. This month: Okinawa Lion Dancers.
You don’t have to be Chinese to enjoy these eight lucky foods traditionally eaten by the Chinese during the lunar new year.
This weekend is the big celebration: On Friday, February 13, you’ll see lions dancing through Chinatown for Choy Cheng; and on Saturday, February 14, Maunakea Street will be closed all day and night for the big street festival and parade.
Ethnic beauty pageants have long been a staple of Hawai‘i’s diverse cultural history. Over the years, though, they’ve had to evolve to fit the changing times.
Every Memorial Day, thousands converge at Ala Moana Beach for the the annual Lantern Floating ceremony, a time to remember those who have died and hope for peace and a harmonious future.
If you want a primer, I have a list of eight things you need to optimize ringing in the Lunar New Year.
