Local designer, Sig Zane created aloha shirts inspired by it, Native Hawaiians ate it as one of their staple starches, and locals continue to eat it today in every variation possible. ‘Ulu, or breadfruit, has gained a hearty following of fans who will celebrate this food source on March 3, in Puna’s ‘Ulu Festival from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
There will be cooking contests, poi pounding, kapa making, keiki crafts, poi board crafting, Hawaiian quilting, live music, and demonstrations throughout the festival. The day’s buffet lunch will feature breadfruit preparations as entrees, appetizers and dessert. Award winning ‘Ulu tamales made by Kua O Ka La Public Charter School will be available for purchase.
Attendees may also purchase breadfruit trees and learn how to cultivate and care for them during some of the festival’s demonstrations. This free event takes place at Ho’oulu Lahui, site of the Kua O Ka La PCS at Pu’ala’a adjacent to the ‘Ahalanui County Park warm pond in Puna.
In the past, ‘ulu trees were cultivated in Puna in deep holes to make leaves and fruit grow at ground level. These seemingly hidden groves did very well in the harsh lava fields of Puna. A commemorative ‘ulu tree will also be planted for Kua O Ka La PCS, 10th Anniversary.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW AD
For more information visit breadfruit.info, or call 965-5098.
This comments section is a public community forum for the purpose of free expression. Although Big Island Now encourages respectful communication only, some content may be considered offensive. Please view at your own discretion. View Comments
