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Events on Lanai
Learn how to surf, watch local dances, sample local
cuisine. There’s never a dull moment on Lanai-turn a
corner and there’ll be a little festival livening up the
streets. Like the rest of the islands, events are staged
here throughout the year and cater to all types of
travelers. Whatever you’re into, there’s sure to be
something on this island to catch your fancy. Here’s a
timeline of the most popular Lanai events around the
year.
March: The Annual Keiki Catch
Families will enjoy this youth-oriented event held on
the island’s school districts. Keiki is the Hawaiian
word for “baby” and refers to a type of local orchid.
The Keiki Catch is aimed at fostering the children’s
relationship with the ocean. If you’re going alone,
don’t worry—the event is open to adults, and you can
“adopt” a child for the day.
May: Lei Day Celebration, Annual Surf Clinic
Hawaii’s version of May Day, the Lei Day celebrates the
state’s most enduring symbol and includes shows,
workshops, and festivals showcasing locally made leis.
There are also lei-making contests and craft shows held
on Lanai and the rest of the islands.
If you’re more into sports, you might enjoy the Annual
Surf Clinic on Manele Bay. It’s designed for beginners,
but more experienced surfers can take part and help out.
Finish the course and you qualify for the next year’s
Summer Competition—definitely a good excuse to come
back!
June: King Kamehameha Celebration
Between the first and second weeks of the month,
Hawaiians gather to honor King Kamehameha I, the leader
who unified the Hawaiian Islands over two centuries ago.
While the event is centered in North Kohala, the King’s
birthplace, all the islands celebrate with flower
festivals, dances, and various cultural attractions.
July: Pineapple Festival, Lanai Obon Dance
Culturally speaking, July is one of the busier months on
Lanai, with at least two major events slated every year.
For the food buffs, the annual Pineapple Festival is
certainly a must-see. Sponsored by Destination Lanai,
the festival is meant to celebrate the island’s rich
plantation history and pineapple trade. Art exhibits,
free tastings, and cooking contests are some of the
regular events.
The Obon Dance, a tribute to the island’s Japanese
warriors, is held on the second week of July and
features a unique dance performed amidst bamboo poles,
paper lanterns, and colorful paper flowers. Visitors can
watch from the sidelines or join in the dance.
Afterwards, everyone gathers for a Japanese feast
featuring such delicacies as sushi, chow fun, and saimin.
September: The Aloha Festival
September is the best month to visit if you’re after
cultural immersion. The main attraction at this time is
the Aloha Festival, a statewide celebration of Hawaiian
culture and arts. Dances, parades, and street festivals
are held from mid-September all the way to October, with
each island playing host for a week.
November: Hawaii International Film Festival
Throughout the first half of November, moviegoers are
treated to a series of film screenings featuring
directors from the U.S., Asia, and the Pacific.
Screenings traditionally take place on Oahu, but most of
the events are held on all the islands.
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