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There are a variety of annual events on Molokai. Below is an overview for each month.
January
One of the most highly anticipated events on Molokai is
the Ka Molokai Makahiki. Makahiki celebrated the time when
battles ceased and harvest time began. Today, the festival
features music, ancient games and hula. Of course, the
food as well as traditional ceremonies are showcased.
February
No major events scheduled.
March
No major events scheduled.
April
Sponsored by the Nature Conservancy, the Earth Day Celebration
is an annual event since 1995. It aims to highlight the
importance of preserving the natural resources of Hawaii.
The Earth Day Celebration is an enjoyable event
with lots of food, music and educational exhibits.
May
Lei Day is an annual event celebrating one of the symbols
of Hawaiian culture. Contests and parades mark the occasion.
Another event is the Molokai Ka Hula Piko, which is centered
around the hula. Performers and musicians from all over
Hawaii gather around the island where hula originated for
an event of great entertainment.
June
During the first weekend of June, the entire island of Molokai
stops to celebrate the King Kamehameha Celebration. Declared
as a state holiday, people come out on the streets to watch
the big flower parade. The highlight of this event is the
entrance of the giant statue of King Kamehameha I adorned
with flowers.
July
Hoolaulea O Ke Kai-A Molokai Sea Fest is a celebration of
one of Hawaii’s most beautiful features: the sea. For an
entire day, Kaunakakai hosts a series of events, such as
windsurfing competitions, canoe races and live entertainment.
August
No major events scheduled.
September
Come September, Hawaii holds the annual Aloha Festivals.
From September until October, each island celebrates Aloha
Week. Parades and food booths are only some of the activities
designed to entertain locals and tourists alike. A highlight
of Aloha Week is the Great Molokai Mule Drag and Hollaulea.
Mules, which are an important part of agriculture in Hawaii,
are honored with a mule race and a mule-dragging contest.
October
The Molokai Hoe is one of the toughest and most competitive
contests in the world. It is an outrigger canoe race covering
the 41 miles (66 km) from Molokai to Oahu through the Kaiwi Channel.
Considered as the world championship of men’s long-distance
outrigger canoe racing, it is one of the most
exciting events of the year.
November
The Hawaii International Film Festival is held during the
first two weeks of November. Film makers from Asia, the
Pacific Islands and the United States are invited to showcase
their works. The films are first shown on Oahu, but are screened
all over the islands during the final weekend.
December
Christmas is welcomed Molokai-style through the Festival
of Lights. Kaunakakai is home to this much-anticipated event.
Parades, food and live music are only some of the activities
to be enjoyed.
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