Go Coconuts For the King

Coconut Island is not an island made entirely of coconuts, nor is it a rock surrounded by that trendy beverage, coconut water. It is an affectionate moniker given to Moku Ola, or island of life, adjacent to Queen Liliuokalani Gardens in Hilo.

On Saturday June 9, King Kamehameha will be celebrated, remembered and revered at a festival in his honor. Hawai’i’s first king united the islands under one ruler and established laws to govern the people.

Kamehameha Day is officially June 11, but this particular festival is celebrated on the Saturday closest to the 11th.

This free event features a cultural explosion of completion, exhibition, live music and native ceremonies.

From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., people of all ages and ethnic backgrounds will witness an ancient bent-knee dance, also known as the dance of the warriors, chant or oli exhibition, as well as watch, or take part in a shell blowing competition.

There will also be opportunities for the public to interact with and learn from respected Kupuna and other cultural practitioners.

This drug and alcohol free event will also feature live music and entertainment by Braddah Walter, Komakakino, Ben Kaili with hula by Halau Ke Ola Pono No Na Kupuna and Halau Ha‘a Kea o Kinohi.

Delicious food and interesting crafts will be available for purchase at this event. For more information visit www.kamehamehafestival.org. This festival is presented by the Royal Order of Kamehameha I, Māmalahoa (Hilo Chapter).